HC Deb 15 April 1869 vol 195 c843
MR. PEEK

said, he wished to ask the First Commissioner of Works, Whether there would be any objection to allow the Public to bathe in the concreted water in Battersea Park before 8 a.m., in consequence of the risk of life that arose from bathing in the Thames?

MR. LAYARD

said, in reply, that the ornamental water in Battersea Park was comparatively small in extent and was shallow, and public bathing would be objectionable unless a bathing-house was erected, which would spoil the appearance of the water. He did not think, therefore, it would be desirable to allow bathing.