Johnny Palmer, the owner of the well-known wild swimming destination at Warleigh Weir on the River Avon near Bath, is contemplating closing public access to the site due to increasing concerns over fire risks during the current drought. Despite being aware that blocking the public footpath is illegal, Mr Palmer feels compelled to take this drastic action to safeguard the area.
Warleigh Weir, which has become a favourite spot for swimmers and visitors, sits on land owned by Mr Palmer, who has witnessed rising problems linked to the growing number of visitors. While most people respect the space, some individuals have disregarded rules, particularly concerning fires, putting the fragile environment at risk.
“I purchased this land to share with the public,” Mr Palmer said. “However, there are some individuals who abuse these wonderful spaces. It’s the tragedy of the commons in action, and it saddens me deeply.”
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Incidents of people illegally lighting fires on the dry ground have raised fears of devastating wildfires, especially given recent blaze outbreaks elsewhere in the UK, such as the wildfire in Stourbridge which destroyed homes and public facilities.
As a local businessman known for unique ventures such as bringing a Boeing 727 to Brislington as an Airbnb, Mr Palmer has long championed wild swimming, including campaigning to open Bath’s Floating Harbour for regulated swimming. He has owned Warleigh Weir for nearly a decade and has sought permission to close the public footpath that currently grants unrestricted access to the island created by the weir.
The surge in wild swimming’s popularity has transformed Warleigh Weir island into a busy visitor hotspot, with picnics, barbecues and gatherings becoming frequent, exacerbating concerns over litter and fire safety.
“Our efforts to strengthen site controls require closing the right of way,” Mr Palmer explained. “But B&NES Council has so far obstructed this, despite clear legal grounds related to both fire risk and nearby railway safety.”
Although uncertain how he will physically block access if he proceeds, Mr Palmer is prepared to face legal consequences. “I know it’s an offence to block a public footpath, but when the alternative is risking serious fires that threaten people, animals and property, I must do what’s necessary,” he said.
He criticised the lack of support from government bodies, which he believes hinders community-led initiatives to maintain safe public spaces. He lamented growing public alienation and described the situation as symptomatic of a wider social breakdown.
Mr Palmer emphasised that while rubbish left by visitors is a problem, the overriding concern prompting potential closure is the danger posed by fires. He indicated that steps to restrict access could be taken imminently, with action possible as early as this Friday.