Yorkshire Water says it has inspected over 100 properties and identified 20 possible misconnections in the Scalby Beck catchment area as part of an ongoing project to improve bathing water quality in Scarborough.
More than 100 properties have been inspected by Yorkshire Water as part of a project to tackle sources of pollution on the North Yorkshire coast.
An ongoing project to improve bathing water quality in Scarborough has identified 20 possible misconnections in the Scalby Beck catchment area, many of which are “associated with new developments”.
The misconnections are being treated as potential sources of pollution affecting water quality, as part of an ongoing investigation linked to Scarborough’s bathing waters.
Last year, a Durham University study suggested Scalby Beck as a source of nitrogen pollution in Scarborough that is carried south by marine currents towards Scarborough South Bay, which is rated ‘poor’ for its bathing water quality.
The South Bay is on the brink of failing overall Government water pollution tests for a record 10th summer season.
A misconnection occurs when wastewater from toilets, kitchens, washing machines or other household appliances is incorrectly connected to surface water drains instead of the foul sewer network, potentially allowing pollution to enter rivers and streams.
The findings form part of a wider programme of work aimed at improving water quality at Scarborough’s beaches and identifying sources of bacterial pollution. Yorkshire Water said it had already carried out extensive investigations throughout the Scalby Beck catchment.
Crews have desilted around 3.5 kilometres of sewer, removing 32 tonnes of sand and silt, and have inspected approximately 200 manholes, with topographical surveys carried out across 130 hectares.
The company also reported that eight dual manholes had been repaired, with a further 21 under investigation.
The update was provided as part of Yorkshire Water’s wider investment programme across Scarborough and Whitby, which includes work to improve bathing water quality and reduce pollution risks affecting the coast.
The utility company said it is planning 54 projects across the area between 2025 and 2030 and could invest up to £150 million in Scarborough during the five years.
Yorkshire Water also said that 10 “high-risk” agricultural runoff hotspots had been identified and details passed to the Environment Agency for inspection.
Councillors on the Scarborough and Whitby Area Committee will question Yorkshire Water managers at a public meeting on Wednesday, September 30.
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