Report pollution, get the latest water quality test results and health information.
Report pollution
Floating Harbour
To report oil pollution in Bristol Harbour call 0117 903 1484.
Officer hours:
- 26 March to 28 October: 8:30am to 4:30pm
- 29 October to 25 March: 10am to 3pm
Rivers
Contact the Environment Agency on 0800 807 060, if you want to report pollution from oil, sewerage or hazardous waste in a river.
Swimming is not allowed in the Floating Harbour.
Floating Harbour
Water quality test results
Measure: Escherichia coliforms (counts per 100ml)
Weekly test, 14 May 2025
- Baltic Wharf: 40
- St Augustine's Reach: 130
- Prince Street Bridge: 180
- Bathurst Basin: 40
- Redcliffe Bridge: 260
Monthly test, 15 April 2025
- SS Great Britain: 10
- Castle Tunnels: 6
- Bristol Bridge: 59
- Netham Lock: 76
- Cumberland Basin: 20
What impacts on harbour water quality
Water quality can be affected by:
- heavy rainfall
- contamination from further up river
- drainage problems
- discharges from boats and wildlife
The water is regularly tested for bacteria at several sample sites (Google map) around Bristol.
If E.Coli levels go above 5,000 counts per 100ml at the Baltic Wharf site or across all other sites, a warning notice will be displayed:
- on this page
- at Baltic Wharf, outside the Harbour Master's Office
You should avoid using the harbour during this time.
Daily testing will be carried out until levels improve.
Rivers
Local rivers are regularly tested for bacteria at several sample sites (Google map).
Water quality test results
Data showing water quality in rivers around Bristol, from 1995 to present is available on DATA.GOV.UK.
Health information
There are some risks to health from contact with Bristol's open water. These include stomach, ear, nose and throat infections.
Risks can be reduced by following these simple steps:
- avoid touching your face, eating, drinking or smoking during water activities
- wash or shower afterwards
- avoid any unnecessary contact with the water, especially getting your head wet
- cover cuts with waterproof dressings
- wear footwear to protect feet from cuts
- clean cuts straightaway
Contact your doctor straightaway if you develop diarrhoea, vomiting or flu-like symptoms after contact with open water.