A dedicated swimming area in the River Itchen is on the cards – but only if proposals are given the green light.

A motion has been put forward in the hopes of facilitating and encouraging open water swimming in the river.

It suggests using the stretch of water between the lock at Bishopstoke and the first railway bridge to the north as the dedicated area.

READ MORE: Seal spotted hunting for food in River Hamble

Two councillors have asked the council to conduct a survey to establish how many people use the area for open water swimming.

If the chosen section can be designated as a bathing water, the Environment Agency will develop a bathing water profile and put plans on place to monitor and protect the bathing water.

The proposal will be discussed in full on Wednesday.

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