Yorkshire drought reaction: Harrogate MP calls for Yorkshire Water to publish a leak-reduction plan

Harrogate and Knaresborough MP Tom Gordon is calling for Yorkshire Water to step up leak repairs following the utility giant’s declaration of drought in the county

The Lib Dem MP said he feared the water network had been neglected to the detriment of the county and its residents.

"Dry spells are becoming increasingly common yet the network has been neglected whilst people's water bills increased,” claimed Mr Gordon

"Yorkshire Water's own data shows it lost an average of more than 260 million litres a day to leaks in 2024/25, that's 95 billion litres over the course of a year.

“To some, it may look like mismanagement.”

The Environment Agency (EA) said low water levels in reservoirs and rivers had triggered the move despite recent rainfall across parts of the region.

This year has seen Yorkshire hit by its fifth driest period on record between April and September.

Yorkshire Water said it was not planning to introduce water restrictions for customers yet despite the drought declaration.

Andy Shaw, head of water production, treatment and energy at Yorkshire Water, said the EA's decision reflected dry conditions across the region but "does not mean water restrictions are currently needed".

But Harrogate’s MP argues that reassurance is in itself is not enough.

“When people are already worried about what climate change means for them and their children, they need to be confident those in charge are managing our vital resources correctly,” said Tom Gordon MP.

"We need the reassurance of a ramped-up leak reduction plan, so we can rest easy knowing this will be mitigated and residents won't be facing a hosepipe band in the summer.

"I will keep fighting to ensure money goes into pipes, not pay packets".