Tom Gordon MP Again Demands Government Action to Tackle Sewage Crisis

Today, local MP Tom Gordon once again pressed the government on what steps they are taking to reduce sewage pollution in rivers. He then went further, asking what steps are being taken to ensure that sewage treatment infrastructure will be implemented to meet both current and future demand. 

Tom asked this question today as last year he visited Killinghall Sewage treatment works, where he saw first hand that water companies are only addressing immediate issues rather than looking ahead and investing in infrastructure to tackle future demand. Tom made it clear to the Minister that tackling the sewage crisis requires long-term planning, urging the government to push water companies to invest in sustainable solutions. Without proactive measures, rivers will continue to be polluted at completely unacceptable levels.

The River Nidd, which runs through Tom’s constituency of Harrogate and Knaresborough, is among the many waterways regularly overflowing with sewage. Since before his election, and throughout his time as MP, Tom has been calling for tougher action against the water industry. He has worked with the Environment Agency, the Nidd Action Group, local councillor Hannah Gostlow, and the community to clean up the river and hold polluters accountable. 

Far too long, water companies like Yorkshire Water have been allowed to pollute rivers without consequence. Instead of prioritising environmental health, many – often owned by overseas investors – have accumulated massive debts while neglecting critical infrastructure upgrades. Meanwhile, Ofwat, the industry regulator, has failed in its duty to protect both the public and the environment.