The River Thames could be about to get its first official swimming spot in Kingston – after the government shortlisted it as one of the sites proposed for as a designated bathing site.
But, just down the river, Thames Water has plans to build the Teddington Direct River Abstraction (TDRA), which will pump treated sewage into the water.
Campaigners for the swimming site at Ham and Kingston say they oppose the TDRA citing concerns around water pollution.
But, if their application for bathing water status is successful, they hope it will expand water quality monitoring and encourage more swimmers to join their community.
Rebecca Mole, from the Teddington Bluetits swim group said: “It will be fantastic for people to engage with the water.
“I think when you’re in the river and you’re using the river, you’re far more likely to fight for it.”
Thames Water said the TDRA will support millions of Londoners during drought.
It also said the recycled water would not deteriorate water quality and would meet Environment Agency standards.
Feature image taken by Bea Twentyman
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