Restrictions could be put on swimming in Fowey Harbour

Concerns have been raised people swimming in the harbour were at risk of collision with vessels

New rules could be introduced in Fowey Harbour to control swimming and prevent a collision between swimmers and vessels.

It comes after a number of incidents were recorded in the harbour where there was a risk of serious injury.

Fowey Harbour Commissioners said the plans were in the "very early stages" but zones could be established where people can swim safely.

The harbourmaster said there would be a public consultation on any proposals.

Paul Thomas, who is also chief executive of Fowey Harbour, said the "the risk of injury is huge".

Fowey Harbour encompasses everything south of Golant on the River Fowey.

Mr Thomas said any restrictions on swimming would apply to the lower harbour be mainly confined to commercial areas, where there was the highest density of boats.

He said: "We're very aware of the need and our duty to keep anyone who uses the harbour safe.

"It's also very obvious that we've had an increasing number of incidents where swimmers are getting very close to boats when they are moving around."

He added: "We also recognise the real benefits of swimming and cold water swimming. We want to establish some areas where people can swim safely and we'll keep boats away from the swimmers."

'Swimming for generations'

Tracey Jones wild swims and thinks swimmers "can share Polruan Pool" with boats.

She added: "People have been swimming at Polruan for centuries, for generations."

Wild swimmer Tracey Jones said people have been using the Polruan area "for centuries, for generations"

She said there had been rumours of swimming being stopped on Back Beach in Polruan but after speaking to the harbourmaster she said the wild swimming would be "even better than before" as there would be more signage and information in the area.

She added: "It has become a lot more popular since the Coronavirus pandemic, and people haven't gone back to the chlorine and the pools."