Bathing Water Application Submitted!

Thank you to everyone who responded to our consultation and supported our application. On behalf of the local community, we submitted our application to DEFRA on 29/10/2025. We’ll post here when we hear back.

River Avon at Fordingbridge Paddling

Why pursue bathing water designation in Salisbury?

Right now, every river in England is failing to meet the ecological and chemical standards set by the Environment Agency. That needs to change.

Bathing water designation has already transformed hundreds of coastal sites, helping to clean up beaches and making them safe for people to enjoy. Now, there is a growing movement to extend the same protection to inland waters, including rivers and lakes.

If a site is designated for bathing, the Environment Agency must monitor water quality regularly and publish the results. This means:

  • Greater accountability for polluters
  • Action to tackle sources of pollution
  • Clear information for swimmers and river users about whether the water is safe

Designation does not just provide data. It helps drive real improvements in water quality and gives communities the tools they need to hold polluters to account. It also empowers people to make informed choices about enjoying their local river.

Queen Elizabeth Gardens Salisbury

Why Queen Elizabeth Gardens?

Queen Elizabeth Gardens is one of Salisbury’s most popular green spaces, sitting where the Hampshire Avon meets the River Nadder. The shallow stretch between the two footbridges is a favourite spot for paddling, especially for families and people picnicking in the park.

Because of its shallow nature, this section of the river does not clash with other activities like fishing or paddle boarding, making it an ideal location for bathing water designation.

The park is already well equipped, with:

  • Public toilets (including accessible facilities and baby changing)
  • Pay-and-display parking
  • A children’s play area
  • Plenty of bins to help keep the park clean
Application Timeline

Application Timeline

Secure landowner and local authority support – Ongoing

Carry out user counts – 15 May to 30 September

Run stakeholder consultation – 29 August to 10 October

Submit application – Deadline 31 October

Supporting Organisations

Does your organisation support the idea of a designated bathing water at Queen Elizabeth Gardens? Get in touch, and we’ll add your logo here.