News

The River Fowey at Lostwithiel has achieved official status as a newly designated inland river bathing site, joining the list of recognized bathing waters for the current season. Situated by the medieval bridge, this tidal stretch of river serves as a popular location for families, children, and regular swimmers.

 The official recognition follows a dedicated local campaign spearheaded by  the Lostwithiel River Swimmers and the Lostwithiel Environment Action Forum.Because the site is a fresh addition to the national registry, the Environment Agency has launched an active monitoring programme. 

Throughout the summer months, Environmental Officers will visit the river weekly to collect water samples.The first sample was taken on  15th May These samples undergo laboratory analysis to evaluate microbiological quality, focusing specifically on bacteria such as Escherichia coli and intestinal enterococci to help protect the health of those entering the water. 

As a direct consequence of its recent designation, the location does not yet carry a historical multi-year star classification, as these ratings require data accumulated over several consecutive years.

The water quality within this stretch of the river is subject to various environmental influences and catchment dynamics. Because it is a tidal section of the river, water conditions can fluctuate naturally with the changing tides. . Additionally, heavy rainfall presents a primary risk to water quality, as storms can carry agricultural runoff from nearby farmland and urban debris from town surfaces into the river channel. Wet weather can also trigger discharges from local sewage treatment facilities and private septic systems. 

More details of the programme and the sample results are available on the Environment Agency Website.