Efforts are underway to restore the River Tone in Taunton, Somerset, after recent tests revealed the water quality falls below recommended hygiene standards. Designated as a “bathing water” last year alongside Farleigh Hungerford near Bath, the River Tone is one of 451 officially recognised bathing sites across England monitored by the Environment Agency.
While these sites boast convenient access, parking, and facilities, the “designated bathing water” label does not automatically mean the water is safe for swimming. Recent classifications rated both Taunton and Farleigh Hungerford as “Poor,” indicating that swimming there is currently not advisable due to contamination concerns.
In response, a community group has formed at French Weir Park on the River Tone to develop an action plan aimed at reducing pollution and improving water quality for swimmers. This initiative encourages local volunteers and supporters of England’s designated bathing waters to contribute towards cleaner and safer environments.
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The Environment Agency is intensifying its monitoring efforts this summer, collecting weekly or fortnightly water samples from rivers and coastal beaches across the country. These samples are tested for harmful bacteria such as E. coli and intestinal enterococci, which indicate the presence of germs that can pose health risks to swimmers.
Jim Flory from the Environment Agency explained, “We routinely monitor rivers to protect wildlife and natural ecology, but maintaining water quality standards for human health requires greater effort. Improving these standards will be a marathon, not a sprint.”
The water quality test results will be published online via the Swimfo platform, enabling the public to make informed decisions about swimming or paddling locations. These results influence annual classifications, with any rating of “Sufficient” or above signifying water quality safe enough for swimming.
Between May 15 and the end of September—the official bathing season—the Environment Agency plans to collect over 7,000 samples at designated bathing waters throughout England. May 15 also marks the reopening for new bathing water applications, with announcements of successful sites expected next year.