River Fowey in Lostwithiel Proposed for Bathing Water Designation

A popular stretch of the River Fowey in Lostwithiel has been shortlisted for new bathing water status, a move that would bring enhanced monitoring and regular water quality testing.

The proposal was welcomed on Friday 13 February by Anna Gelderd, Member of Parliament for South East Cornwall, who described it as a positive step forward for the area.

If approved, the designation would mean the site is officially recognised as a bathing water. That would trigger routine testing by the Environment Agency during the bathing season from mid May to September, providing bathers with clear information about water quality.

Public Consultation Now Open

Local communities are being invited to have their say as part of a six week public consultation running from 13 February to 23 March. In total, 13 new river and coastal sites across England have been proposed for designation, reflecting what the Government says is growing public interest in outdoor swimming and connecting with blue spaces.

Anna urged residents in Lostwithiel and surrounding areas to take a few minutes to respond to the consultation.

She said:

“For too long South East Cornwall has had to put up with poor water quality and a lack of action across our area. I have had ongoing conversations with local people and community groups like Drip Drip about these concerns, and this proposal for Lostwithiel is a clear and welcome step forward.

“Designation would mean regular testing and real accountability, giving residents the confidence they deserve when they swim and enjoy our local waters. I am encouraging everyone in Lostwithiel and the surrounding areas to take part in the consultation.”

What Designation Would Mean

England currently has 451 designated bathing waters. These sites are tested regularly throughout the bathing season, helping people make informed choices about where and when to swim. Monitoring data can also be used by the Environment Agency to take action and improve water quality over time.

The Government says designation can bring wider benefits, including boosting tourism and strengthening community pride in well used rivers and beaches.

Water Minister Emma Hardy said:

“Rivers and beaches are at the heart of so many communities, and people deserve a say in how these community assets are looked after.

“Our plans to designate new bathing water sites show how we are backing local ambition and recognising the pride in places that matter most to people.

“They are one part of this government’s generational reform of the water system, that will cut water pollution and clean up our rivers lakes and seas for good.”

According to the Government, there were relatively few new bathing water designations during the 2010s. Ministers say regulations were modernised last year to ensure communities receive better support when seeking protected status for local sites.

The outcome of the consultation will determine whether the River Fowey in Lostwithiel joins the list of officially designated bathing waters in England.