The Sandy Lane stretch of the River Dee has been officially designated as a Bathing Water, following a successful application by local community group the Clean Dee Campaign.

As a result of this decision, the site will now be formally monitored for water quality by the Environment Agency during the bathing season, providing clear public information and stronger protection for water users.

Bathing water status for this stretch of the river means regular, independent water quality testing, published results to inform the public about water quality, and a legal framework for identifying and addressing sources of pollution.

The news follows a previously unsuccessful bid submitted in 2023, which failed to meet the required threshold for recorded bathers after the criteria were changed halfway through the application process.

Earlier this year, a public consultation was launched to gauge local support, with residents and river users strongly backing Bathing Water status. It later formed part of the application accepted by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) for a full public review.

Local campaign group the Clean Dee Campaign, has worked alongside community groups including local residents, Chester Frosties, Chester Triathlon Club, canoeing and kayaking clubs, environmental groups, and other local river users to gather evidence, and build a robust case for designation, an effort now successfully recognised.

Dianne Parrish and Emma Sharpe of the Clean Dee Campaign said: "Regular monitoring at designated bathing water sites will provide clearer public information, stronger protection for both people and wildlife, and a more transparent pathway for improving and maintaining water quality over the long term.

"This stretch of water is already enjoyed by many local people, and we hope the new bathing water designation will encourage even more residents and visitors to take part in leisure and sporting activities, as well as supporting the health of the river"

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The project has been also been supported by MP for Chester North and Neston, Samantha Dixon, who described the news as a "major leap forward".

She added: "The Clean Dee Campaign and our local river users have shown what community determination can achieve and I'd like to extend my heartfelt thanks for all their work on this fantastic achievement.

"This milestone isn't just about monitoring water, it's about celebrating a cleaner, healthier, and more vibrant River Dee for everyone."