Home / Environment / Thames River Gets First Official Bathing Spot
Thames River Gets First Official Bathing Spot
13 Feb
Summary
- A stretch of the River Thames in London is proposed as an official bathing site.
- This marks the first designated bathing spot on the Thames in history.
- New sites will undergo annual water quality testing by the Environment Agency.
A section of the River Thames in southwest London is on track to become the city's first official bathing site. The proposed location, situated between Ham and Kingston-upon-Thames, is among over a dozen new spots put forward by the Government for designation as bathing waters. This initiative signifies a remarkable recovery for the Thames, which was once deemed "biologically dead" in the 1950s.
The designation mandates that the Environment Agency will conduct weekly water quality tests from May to September each year. This process is crucial for informing swimmers about safety and identifying pollution sources, enabling targeted cleanup efforts. Communities and campaigners anticipate that these designations will intensify pressure for improved river and coastal water quality nationwide.
Wild swimming has seen a significant increase in popularity recently, with millions taking up the activity since 2020. While celebrated for its health and social benefits, it also carries inherent risks. The Government's plan, which includes other proposed sites like Pangbourne Meadow and East Beach, is currently undergoing a six-week public consultation. This process aligns with broader environmental reforms aimed at reducing water pollution.
