The River Nidd at Knaresborough Lido has again been rated 'poor' for bathing water quality in the latest government assessment released today (Tuesday).
The rating means the stretch of river is not considered safe for bathing, and visitors are advised against entering the water.
It is the second consecutive year the site has received the lowest possible classification.
The Environment Agency carries out regular monitoring at designated bathing sites across England, testing for bacteria such as E. coli and intestinal enterococci.
A ‘poor’ rating is issued when levels exceed national safety thresholds.
Harrogate and Knaresborough MP Tom Gordon criticised the ongoing situation, describing the repeated poor rating as “deeply disappointing and utterly unacceptable.”
He said:
“This is a cherished spot for local families and visitors, yet year after year it remains unsafe because Yorkshire Water puts profit before our environment.
“Enough is enough. Yorkshire Water must face real consequences. That means scrapping OFWAT and replacing it with a regulator that has teeth – one that punishes polluters, enforces the law, stops sewage dumping, and forces proper investment to clean up our rivers for good.”
Yorkshire Water has faced national scrutiny in recent years over storm overflows and river pollution, alongside other major water companies.
The firm has previously stated that improving river water quality is a priority and that investment is being made across the region’s wastewater network.
Officials say monitoring will continue throughout 2025, with the next annual classification due at the end of next year.
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