Are you trying to encourage more swimmers in the river?

No. We are aware that people are already swimming or paddling in the river in great numbers every year and believe that people deserve to be fully informed before they decide to do so.  Furthermore, we view this application as one of various ways to highlight the issues facing our rivers and the environment as a whole and therefore view it is an opportunity not to be missed. As concerned citizens we feel that only by gathering a full picture of the river’s true state can we begin to look towards solutions and improvements.

We value the natural world, that here in Shropshire we are so lucky to be surrounded by, and wish to protect it.  This does not alter the fact that our rivers are already ‘on the map’ for many locals and visitors alike.  Whilst we have no desire to promote it any further as a destination, we do see a need to improve water quality for these people as well as for the health of the river itself.

Won’t people swimming in the river be worse for the environment?

We acknowledge that any human ‘use’ of the natural world may be to its detriment and we are keen to promote respectful and responsible interaction with the river and its environs.

However, as above, we also know that our rivers are already well used by people, as they have been for many decades and accepting the water quality at a low standard will help neither people nor environment.

Further to this we strongly feel that by encouraging a personal connection to and appreciation for the natural world people will be more likely to take care of it.

What about other dangers of swimming in the river?

There are possible dangers to swimming in the river, as there are with many outdoor pursuits.

We do not think this is a reason to ignore the fact that many people have taken great joy in swimming here for generations and regardless of this campaign will likely continue to do so. We hope that people will continue to approach the river with due caution and being informed about all potential risks, including those of water quality, should be part of that choice.

Will this require changes ?

The short answer is no. The only requirement beyond testing the water is that signage is displayed to inform the public of water quality and any specific pollution incidents. 

As local residents and swimmers ourselves we have a strong desire to protect and preserve our river and the land surrounding it.

There are no plans as part of this application to make any changes to the infrastructure or setting of our bathing water locations, and indeed we do not have the power to do so. 

Do these problems just affect The Severn & The Teme?

Sadly, no. As of 2019 only 14% of rivers across the UK were rated as being of good ecological quality within the Water Framework Directive.

There are many areas of human activity that have an impact on the health of the river. These include industry, urban and transport impacts, agriculture, water industry, mining and quarrying.

The problem of our sewage infrastructure is one that is ongoing and starting to come under greater scrutiny with parliamentary bills such as Philip Dunne’s Sewage (Inland Waters) Bill.

There is much information to be found on this topic, a great starting point for further reading is www.theriverstrust.org.