River Wharfe in Ilkley to be England's first river bathing site
It's after a two year campaign by residents to clean up the river.
The River Wharfe at Ilkley has become the first in England to be designated a river bathing site.
The Ilkley Clean River group has been campaigning for the designation, supported by local councils.
The decision follows a public consultation - which ran from August to October.
It means the river, between Ilkley Main Bridge and Beanlands Island, will be tested regularly for pollution, starting in May 2021. The area is a popular swimming and paddling spot for both local residents and visitors to the area.
Becky Malby, from Ilkley Clean River group, said: "This is credit to the people of Ilkley, who in their hundreds, counted people bathing, tested the water, came to public meetings and took part in the public consultation. Thankyou to Ilkley.
"We are absolutely over the moon. This comes after two years of campaigning to clean up the river in Ilkley. We're delighted that the designation stretches for the entier stretch that we applied for - encompassing the sewage treatment works.
"This was a town coming together to clean up its river, because we really care about it. We've worked well with Yorkshire Water, the Environment Agency, Bradford Council and Ilkley Town Council."
Environment Minister Rebecca Pow said: “The residents of Ilkley and the surrounding area have shown their overwhelming appreciation for the River Wharfe as an asset to enjoy and protect. I am delighted that this stretch of river will be the first river to host a designated bathing water site.
“Unfortunately, we all know that water quality won’t change overnight. It will take time and we need farmers and businesses to commit to achieve the necessary improvements. I am pleased to see Yorkshire Water stepping forward with new proposals today to help move things in the right direction.”