New proposals have listed 13 locations across the UK to become designated bathing spots
Two locations across the North West are set to become outdoor swimming sites(Image: Colin Lane/Liverpool Echo)
A number of areas across the country have been proposed to become outdoor swimming spots in new plans set out by the government. More than ten locations have been listed as part of the proposals, and two of these are in the North West.
The new plans will look to construct 13 designated bathing spots within scenic spots across the country. This will add to the hundreds of bathing sites already in operation across the country, bringing the total number of locations to 464.
These spots will look to give local people greater confidence to enjoy the rivers and beaches they cherish, Water Minister Emma Hardy announced today. The new sites should offer people local spaces to swim, spend time with family and connect with nature.
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Among the locations in the North West listed to become outdoor swimming sites is New Brighton Beach (East) in Merseyside. This sandy seaside resort at the mouth of the Mersey Estuary provides stunning views of Liverpool’s impressive skyline and features a golden stretch of sand to enjoy.
The River Dee at Sandy Lane, in Chester, is also among the locations in the North West to become a proposed outdoor swimming site. This area is already popular with families for water sports, with kayaking and paddleboarding tours taking place on the stretch. A number of rowing clubs can also be found across the river.
Commenting on the plans, Water Minister Emma Hardy said: “Rivers and beaches are at the heart of so many communities – where people come together, families make memories and swimmers of all ages feel the benefits of being outdoors safely.
“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. This comes alongside this government’s generational reform of the water system, that will cut water pollution and clean up our rivers lakes and seas for good.”
The news comes as part of the government’s plans to expand the number of bathing sites across the country and support water quality. When sites are designated as bathing waters they are regularly tested for water quality throughout the bathing season, which runs from May 15 to September 30, thereby helping to survey water quality.
The government also suggests outdoor swimming sites may also boost tourism within an area and strengthen community pride in the local rivers. As part of these proposals to designate 13 new bathing water sites, a six-week public consultation period will be launched where local communities can share their thoughts on the plans.
Last year, The Environment Agency found 93% of England’s bathing waters to meet acceptable standards for swimming. Of the 449 sites in the England, 87% were found to also meet standards for ‘Excellent’ or ‘Good’ classification.
Locations set to become outdoor swimming sites
- Little Shore, Amble, Northumberland
- Newton and Noss Creeks, Devon
- Canvey Island Foreshore, Essex
- Sandgate Granville Parade Beach, Kent
- Queen Elizabeth Gardens Salisbury, Wiltshire
- East Beach at West Bay, Bridport, Dorset
- Pangbourne Meadow, Berkshire
- River Fowey in Lostwithiel, Cornwall
- River Swale in Richmond, Yorkshire
- Falcon Meadow, Bungay, Suffolk
- River Thames at Ham and Kingston, Greater London
- New Brighton Beach (East), Merseyside
- River Dee at Sandy Lane, Chester, Cheshire
