Andrew Jones MP ‘confident’ of achieving bathing water status for River Nidd

Harrogate and Knaresborough MP Andrew Jones has said the campaign to improve water quality in the River Nidd at Knaresborough is “gaining momentum” and he is “confident” of success.

Mr Jones’ comments came after he discussed the matter with environmental quality minister Rebecca Pow this week.

According to his Community News website, Mr Jones briefed Ms Pow about water quality issues in the Nidd and his proposal to designate the Lido in Knaresborough as an area of Bathing Water Quality.

Concerns about Nidd water quality increased in summer this year following reports of numerous people falling ill after entering the water.

andrew jones-mp-and-frank maguire

Knaresborough Lido

If the bathing water bid is successful, the Environment Agency would be obliged to put plans in place to monitor and protect the water. The River Wharfe in Mr Jones’ native Ilkley is currently the only inland water in the UK with bathing water status.

The Conservative MP said:

“Next May is the critical time as that is when the evidence must be collected to make a Bathing Water Quality application to DEFRA.  In between now and then I am ensuring that we have the maximum support possible lined up behind the application.

“I’ve spoken to residents and businesses, councillors, MPs in Commons debates and now directly to the minister.  It feels like the campaign is gathering momentum and I am confident that we will be successful.”

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Following her meeting with Mr Jones in the House of Commons, Ms Pow said:

“It was very good to learn more about Andrew’s campaign and see the passion to improve water quality on the River Nidd.

“I was particularly pleased to see the depth of community interest and support.

“Improving water is a priority for the government, and we are actively encouraging communities to apply for bathing water status. There are so many elements to our work, but team working and local passion are at the heart of making progress.”