West Cumbria Rivers Trust leads the way in highlighting urgent water quality issues in Derwent Water

Derwent Water looking East 

Derwent Water classified as poor in Defra’s latest Bathing Water results

West Cumbria Rivers Trust has played a pivotal role in shining a light on pollution challenges in Derwent Water. Working with support from the National Trust, they applied for Bathing Water Status at Crow Park in 2023, a milestone achievement that allowed for the first official water quality monitoring of Derwentwater under this designation.

The results, released yesterday by Defra, reveal that Derwentwater has been classified as poor, failing to meet minimum bathing water standards. This classification is a wake-up call, spotlighting threats to our wildlife, ecosystems, the people who depend on these waters for recreation and livelihoods and the broader community at whole. Without Bathing Water Status, this critical information would have remained hidden, leaving pollution issues unchallenged.

“The classification is deeply concerning, but it underscores the importance of our campaign to push for greater accountability and action at pollution sources in our region,” said Jodie Mills, Director of West Cumbria Rivers Trust.  “Without our efforts to secure Bathing Water Status, this crucial data would not have come to light.”

The sampling, carried out by the Environment Agency over the summer, provides a clearer picture of the challenges facing one of West Cumbria’s iconic lakes. While the results are a stark reminder of the work still needed, they also mark the beginning of a concerted effort to address the pollution issues at their source.

West Cumbria Rivers Trust is determined to extend this effort across the region. By seeking Bathing Water Status for more locations, they can ensure water quality monitoring happens in more of our rivers and lakes, providing the essential data need to drive systemic change.  

Improving water quality in Derwentwater and beyond will require collaborative efforts from government agencies, landowners, communities, and industry. We are urging national and local leaders to prioritize investment in infrastructure improvements and stricter enforcement of pollution regulations.

“The poor classification for Derwentwater is deeply concerning, but it is also an opportunity to drive lasting change,” added Jodie. “West Cumbria’s rivers and lakes are vital to our environment, economy, heritage and health, and we will not rest until they are clean, and protected for future generations.”