Applications for bathing rivers flood in

MPs debated last week how more rivers might achieve bathing water status.

Conservative MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough, Andrew Jones, secured the debate, with a particular interest in designation for the River Nidd at the Lido Leisure Park in Knaresborough.

Parliamentary under secretary of state for Defra, Trudy Harrison, confirmed the desire was aligned with Government ambitions for rivers. She reported: "I am pleased to say that we have many more applications for rivers to be designated bathing quality areas,” following the first two designations in Ilkley and Oxfordshire.

Harrison added that guidance for applicants for inland bathing waters had been simplified and that supportive action was being taken elsewhere including via the Storm Overflow Discharge Reduction Plan and on wet wipes.