London Assembly Urges Creation of 10 New Wild Swimming Sites

A new report from the London Assembly has called for the creation of ten additional wild swimming spots across the capital to help clean up waterways and improve access to outdoor swimming.

While cities like Paris and Chicago have recently reopened rivers for swimming, London currently has just eight designated natural swimming locations – all in docks or ponds, with no rivers meeting “good” environmental standards under official testing.

The Assembly’s environment committee recommends that Mayor Sadiq Khan set a goal of designating four new bathing water sites by 2028 and six more by 2034. It suggests prioritising rivers already used for recreation, highlighting Teddington in south-west London as a starting point.

The report urges Khan to tackle water pollution with the same determination he showed on air quality through policies such as the ultra-low emission zone, which has significantly reduced harmful emissions from vehicles. It also proposes giving the mayor a role on Thames Water’s board to strengthen accountability for cleaning up rivers.

By April 2026, the committee wants the Greater London Authority to provide clear water safety guidance through a centralised online hub, alongside awareness campaigns and promotion of safe, supervised swimming areas.

Committee chair Zack Polanski, leader of the Green Party, said London’s rivers remain in an unacceptable condition due to pollution. He stressed the importance of uniting stakeholders and delivering visible progress through the 2028 bathing water target, ensuring future generations can safely enjoy the capital’s waterways.