Yorkshire Wolds rare chalk streams under threat

Lib Dems call for urgent crackdown on pollution Liberal Democrat Councillor Phil Redshaw (Cottingham North) has set out the importance of protecting chalk streams in the East Riding, describing them as “nationally and internationally significant natural assets.” 

Cllr Redshaw said the chalk landscape of the Yorkshire Wolds gives rise to the most northerly chalk streams in England, placing the area in a unique position. He highlighted the central role of the River Hull and its wider network of chalk-fed tributaries and wetlands, including the Gypsey Race, Driffield Beck, Foston Beck, West Beck, and the Skerne Wetlands. “These are not ordinary rivers,” Cllr Redshaw said. “Chalk streams are globally rare, with around 85% found in England. That places a particular responsibility on us as custodians of something internationally important.” He warned that these fragile ecosystems are under increasing pressure from pollution, particularly sewage and nutrient runoff, as well as water abstraction and climate change. “What makes chalk streams special — their clear water, stable flows and rich ecology — is also what makes them vulnerable,” he said. 

Cllr Redshaw pointed to national data showing that tens of thousands of hours of sewage were discharged into chalk streams in 2023 alone, describing the figure as “a cause for serious concern,” and warning that once ecological balance is lost, recovery is extremely difficult. Welcoming progress at a national level, he noted that a Chalk Streams Protection Bill is currently progressing through Parliament, alongside proposals for a “Blue Flag”-style accreditation scheme for rivers. “These are positive steps,” he said, “but they will need strong support from local areas like ours to be effective.”

As part of the motion, Cllr Redshaw asked that the Council to write to the Secretary of State, Steve Reed, in support of nominating England’s chalk streams for UNESCO World Heritage status. “World Heritage Status would recognise their international importance, help unlock long-term protection and investment, and raise the profile of areas like the River Hull catchment,” he said. He also called on the Government to go further by recognising chalk streams as irreplaceable habitats in planning policy, tackling sewage and nutrient pollution, and ensuring the sustainable management of chalk aquifers. Locally, Cllr Redshaw emphasised the importance of partnership working. “Protecting these rivers depends on farmers, land managers, the Environment Agency, water companies, drainage boards and local communities. This is not about pointing fingers, it is about shared stewardship,” he said. 

Cllr Jeremy Wilcock (Beverley Rural) said "These chalk streams are part of East Yorkshire's natural identity - a defining feature of the region's landscape. Protecting them safeguards biodiversity, water quality, local heritage and the wellbeing of future generations." adding "We want our children and grandchildren to be able to collect wild watercress or thrill at the sight of Kingfishers, or moorhens and their chicks." 

Cllr Redshaw concluded by urging cross-party support for the motion. “This is an issue that is locally relevant and environmentally important. If we get this right, we support biodiversity, water quality, flood resilience and the long-term wellbeing of our residents."