Residents across Oxford are being encouraged to check river water quality before swimming, paddling or rowing at Wolvercote Mill Stream ahead of the hot Spring Bank Holiday weekend.
Environmental campaign group River Action has issued fresh advice for people planning to spend time on the water as rising temperatures are expected to draw large crowds to rivers and outdoor swimming spots across the county.
The warning comes as Wolvercote Mill Stream — one of England’s designated river bathing waters — currently holds a “poor” classification under Government standards, meaning official advice is that people should avoid swimming there.
River Action is encouraging the public to check live pollution alerts and recent sewage discharge information before entering the water. The organisation recommends using SewageMap.co.uk and Surfers Against Sewage’s Safer Seas and Rivers Service to monitor conditions before visiting local waterways.
Wolvercote Mill Stream, located in north Oxford near Port Meadow, has become increasingly popular in recent years with swimmers, paddleboarders, kayakers and families looking to cool off during warmer weather. However, campaigners say untreated sewage discharges and poor river health remain a major concern.
According to River Action, 12 of England’s 14 currently classified river bathing waters are rated “poor”, highlighting what the group describes as a growing sewage pollution crisis affecting rivers nationwide.
James Wallace, CEO of River Action, said: “We want people to enjoy the water safely this weekend. Rivers and other swimming spots are hugely important places for recreation, wellbeing and connecting with nature.
“Checking water quality before you swim is a sensible precaution, especially after any recent sewage spills. In general, dry weather can mean lower pollution risk, but people should still take care, avoid swallowing water, and avoid swimming with open cuts or wounds.
“People shouldn’t have to worry about sewage pollution when visiting rivers and bathing sites. Water companies are legally required to treat sewage properly, and sewage overflows should only be used in exceptional circumstances.”
River Action also pointed to guidance developed with British Rowing and The Rivers Trust aimed at helping rowers and regular river users reduce health risks when water quality is poor.
The Government recently designated six new river bathing waters across England, bringing the total number of officially recognised river bathing sites to 20. River Action welcomed the move but said far more sites need protection and monitoring.
Campaigners say that while dry weather can sometimes lower the risk of sewage pollution, sewage overflows can still occur even when there has been little rainfall.
For many Oxford residents, Wolvercote Mill Stream remains a treasured summer spot, but environmental groups are urging caution and greater awareness before taking to the water this Bank Holiday weekend.
