WHY BRISTOL HARBOUR?

Swimming has wonderful benefits for both physical and mental health. And there is an abundance of water running straight through the heart of the city! We would like to see Bristol follow in the footsteps of Copenhagen, which provides clean and usable for its residents to enjoy. 

A climate emergency has been declared by the Mayor. This is the perfect opportunity to tidy up the water and surrounding areas and also provide a public amenity reachable by foot, bike and public transport. 

BENEFITS OF WILD SWIMMING

Wild swimming is, by definition, swimming in any natural body of water. That can be a lake, river, pond, or ocean, or in this case, a harbour. Wild swimming is legal in publicly accessible waterways, or with the permission of landowners where the land is privately owned.

Unlike pool swimming, wild swimming allows swimmers to connect with nature, enjoy the elements, and appreciate the environment. Best of all, in most cases, it’s free! There’s no lanes, time limits, or online booking systems.
While wild swimming has been growing in popularity in recent years, the coronavirus lockdown has seen many more people take to natural bodies of water in lieu of pools or other forms of exercise. 

And with the increased number of swimmers, has come an increased number of communities formed around local swimming spots. Swimmers are a friendly bunch, and can often be found in large groups, enjoying tea and cake lakeside or on river banks, chatting about their favourite swims, their next swim, and the best places to swim. 

SAFETY

It is currently not permitted to swim in Bristol Harbour. It is our aim, to change this, and the priority is to make a safe space. Many people fall into Bristol Harbour, or enter with no plan for an exit. Therefore, we would seek to have easy entry and exit to the water. 

The main cause of injury or death is cold water shock- or a heart attack caused by entering cold water without appropriate acclimatisation or preparation. We would look to make safety information clearly available and provide education on cold water and safe swimming. 

Diseases, such as E. Coli, are another major concern, but with increased recreational use will come a greater respect for this wonderful amenity, reducing waste, sewage, and litter in the water. There should also be regular water testing, the results of which will be communicated to the public. 

Education, protected space, and clean water can make the harbour a safe and enjoyable resource.