Story perspectives

UK warns against Thames bathing after toxic algal bloom

8/20/2026

Summary

Story summary

UK Environment Agency warned not to bathe in Ham-Kingston Thames after a toxic algal bloom driven by heat, flow and sewage pollution, noting Thames Water breached its permits.
Richmond Council and Kingston borough posted signs after Marlene Lawrence got a rash from swimming before the warning.
MP Munira Wilson opposed Thames Water’s £250 million plan to abstract 75 million litres, while only 14.3 % of England’s waters met good ecological status in 2025.

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Story summary

UK Environment Agency warned not to bathe in Ham-Kingston Thames after a toxic algal bloom driven by heat, flow and sewage pollution, noting Thames Water breached its permits.
Richmond Council and Kingston borough posted signs after Marlene Lawrence got a rash from swimming before the warning.
MP Munira Wilson opposed Thames Water’s £250 million plan to abstract 75 million litres, while only 14.3 % of England’s waters met good ecological status in 2025.