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87% of England's Waters Rated Good, Ilkley's River Still Poor

11/29/2025

50 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Environment Agency reports 87% of England's bathing waters were Excellent or Good in 2025.
The River Wharfe in Ilkley remains 'poor' for the fifth year due to storm overflows and agricultural runoff.
Yorkshire Water is investing to improve water quality.
Bathing Water Regulations take effect on November 21, 2025, allowing flexible monitoring and remediation rather than automatic de-designation after poor ratings.

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Story summary

The Environment Agency reports 87% of England's bathing waters were Excellent or Good in 2025.
The River Wharfe in Ilkley remains 'poor' for the fifth year due to storm overflows and agricultural runoff.
Yorkshire Water is investing to improve water quality.
Bathing Water Regulations take effect on November 21, 2025, allowing flexible monitoring and remediation rather than automatic de-designation after poor ratings.