Edisford Bridge in Clitheroe has officially been designated as a Bathing Water site, marking an important step towards improving water quality and protecting river users. But what does this status actually mean, and what can be done to make our rivers cleaner and safer? Here’s everything you need to know.

What is a Designated Bathing Water?

The terms ‘Designated Bathing Water’ and ‘Bathing Water Status’ can be a little bit confusing. Just because a site has this status, it doesn’t automatically mean it’s safe to swim. However, it does mean that the site receives extra levels of protection against pollution, with public bodies monitoring water quality more closely and taking action against polluters.

What is the Bathing Water Status at Edisford Bridge?

After its first year of testing, Edisford Bridge has been rated as ‘poor.’ While this might sound alarming, it doesn’t mean swimming is banned. Instead, it highlights an urgent need for improvements. The designation also brings more funding to help identify pollution sources and take action to improve water quality.

What is the water tested for?

Water quality standards for Bathing Waters are based on World Health Organisation research into the risks of stomach upsets caused by bacteria in the water. Designated Bathing Waters are monitored for harmful bacteria such as E. coli and Intestinal enterococci. These bacteria, which usually enter the water through sewage and animal waste, can pose health risks. By regularly testing for them, environmental agencies provide the public with the information needed to make informed choices about entering the water.

Initial environmental monitoring suggests that pollution affecting Edisford Bridge may be traveling from as far as 20 miles upstream of Clitheroe. Identifying and addressing these sources is crucial for improving water quality.

What do the new reforms mean for Edisford Bridge?

The UK government has announced major reforms to Bathing Water Status, designed to improve water quality and safety. These changes will have a direct impact on Edisford Bridge, ensuring better protection and monitoring. Key reforms include:

• Expanded protection for water sports enthusiasts, not just swimmers.
• Multiple monitoring points at each site for better data collection.
• Flexible monitoring periods instead of fixed bathing seasons.
• Ending automatic de-designation for sites rated ‘poor’ for five years, preventing damage to local tourism and businesses.

While there’s still more work to do, these reforms are a step in the right direction. With bathing water applications reopening in May, we hope to see more sites across England benefiting from these improved standards.

How Can You Help?

You can play a role in improving water quality at Edisford Bridge by:

To reduce the risk of illness or infection when swimming in rivers, follow these precautions: check the Swimfo website before planning a swim, avoid swimming after heavy rain, try not to swallow any water, avoid touching your face and sanitise your hands, and wash thoroughly and as soon as possible after swimming.

Together, we can help protect and restore our rivers for everyone to enjoy!

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Rivers are at the heart of our local landscapes. Whether you’re casting a line, exploring a riverside trail, or simply basking in the beauty of nature, you can help protect these special places now, and for generations to come.

By becoming a Ribble Rivers Trust supporter for just £3 a month, you’ll be funding real, on-the-ground action.

Ready to make a difference? Learn more here: ribbletrust.org.uk/become-a-supporter