Hopes to make a Lyme Regis beach designated bathing area
An application's gone in to DEFRA for the status
Last updated 16th Oct 2023
Campaigners to get Church Beach in Lyme Regis re-designated as a 'bathing beach' have submitted their application to DEFRA.
The Government department will make the final decision, which would better protect the area from pollution.
Over 400 positive responses were submitted to a public consultation, organised by the River Lim Action Group.
Just two comments didn’t support the idea.
The Government decision is made on the basis of number of bathers, results of the public consultation and the availability of local facilities.
Vicki Elcoate of the River Lim Action group said:
“We tick all those boxes. We’re very grateful for the support of the local Blue Tits swimming group, local residents, holidaymakers, businesses, and swimming organisations. Also Dorset Council, Lyme Regis Town Council, South West Water and MP Chris Loder.
“Even though water quality isn’t a criterion for designation, many of the comments we received were about pollution. The beach was de-designated in 2016 for poor water quality and everyone agrees we want the river, and therefore the beach, cleaned up for the sake of the many swimmers and others who already enjoy it, or would like to."
The group's also released some of the comments made during the consultation in favour of the idea:
“I have been swimming at Church Beach for over 10 years. It is a beautiful swimming spot. To improve the health and well-being of people and our planet, the water quality should be monitored and improved."
“We frequently come to Lyme Regis to swim, and Church beach has in the past been our favoured beach. I would like to feel it is safe place to enter the water."
“Many people, locals and visitors, use Church Beach for swimming and bathing so the designation should reflect that.”