National Rivers Authority Northumbria & Yorkshire Region January 1995

Home , Arkle Beck, Bedale Beck, Bishopdale Beck, Boothferry, River Foss, River Swale

NRA National Rivers Authority Northumbria & Yorkshire Region January 1995 National A uthority

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse Catchment

Teesdale D.C Eden D.C

Hambleton D.C

Richmondshire D.C ^ ^ Rvedale D.C

Selby D.C )

KEY Boothferry ______Catchment Boundary D.C Watercourses r\j® Tidal Limit Road Network

I.oeal Authority Boundaries E n v ir o n m e n t Ag en c y

NATIONAL LIBRARY & INFORMATION SERVICE

NORTH EAST REGION

Tyneside House, Skinnerburn Road. Newcastle Business Park, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne NE4 7AR

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse January 1995 Catchment Management Plan CONTENTS

PAGE N O

C O N T E N T S 1

1. VISION FOR THE CATCHMENT 2

2. IN T R O D U C T IO N 3

3. REVIEW OF THE CONSULTATION PROCESS 3

4. OVERVIEW O F T H E C A T C H M EN T 4

5. RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN LAND USE AND 5 THE WATER ENVIRONMENT

6. A C T IO N PLA N 6 Issues: A. Water Resources Management 7 B. Aquifer Protection 8 C. Water Quality Management 9 D. Ecology, Recreation and Amenity 11 E Flood Defence 13 F. Future Development 15 G. River Swale 16 H. River Ure 18 I. Non-Tidal River Ouse 20 J. River Foss and Tributaries 22 K. Tidal Ouse 24

7. FUTURE REVIEW AND MONITORING 26

8. GLOSSARY O F TERM S 27

9. N R A E M E R G E N C Y H O T L IN E 28

ENVIRONMENT AGENCY

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse January 1995 Catchment Management Plan 0 5 1 2 4 5 1. VISION FOR THE CATCHMENT The catchment is held to be of great landscape, conservation and amenity value. The significant The Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse drain a catchment area of conservation value of the catchment is recognised in both over 3200km’. The rivers flow from the protected, national and local designations. The NRA acknowledges designated uplands of the Yorkshire Dales National Park the conservation implications of its duties, and would through the City of York to the port of Selby. This encourage management practices, both internally and by diversity in landscape and heritage attracts many visitors to external organisations, that increase the habitat diversity the catchment each year, whether this be for recreational and conservation value of the river corridor. This is activities in the National Park or simply to enjoy the particularly true where enhancements would enable pleasures of the City of York. opportunities for indigenous species, such as otter and The majority of the catchment is of a rural nature with the crayfish, to re-establish viable populations. Of considerable population being concentrated in the towns and the City of interest in a catchment of such beauty is the need for access York at the lower end of the catchment. and recreational facilities for the local and wider Given such contrasts there are numerous opportunities for community. The NRA will encourage responsible the NRA to work together with the wider community for recreational activities on the river. The future development the benefit of the water environment. The challenge of of recreation will only be successful through careful managing the waters of the catchment is in effectively management, co-operation and moderation by all who have responding to the range of pressures on the area and an interest in this resource. reconciling all the uses demanded, whether it be for water The NRA will work to provide and maintain defences supply, industrial supply, effluent disposal, fisheries, throughout the catchment in order to alleviate the risk of conservation, recreation or protection from flooding. flooding from ‘main river’, to the highest level of defence Within the Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse catchment, water that is both cost effective and environmentally acceptable. resources, water quality, flood defence and land The NRA will work towards providing a comprehensive management issues are considered to be particularly flood forecasting and warning service targeted at specific important. areas at risk. Whenever advance forecasts allow, warnings The catchment represents a large source of drinking water would be issued at least two hours prior to the onset of within Yorkshire. Because of this, the achievement of high flooding. The Authority will protect, and enhance water quality standards through effective and proactive wherever practicable habitats, flora, fauna, fisheries, pollution control are necessary to ensure the continuance architectural and recreation interests in addition to flood of these uses. Generally water quality is good although defence interests when determining applications for localised problems do occur due to the discharge of sewage, consent to undertake works in watercourses or to develop industrial and farm effluent. The NRA will continue to in the flood plain. work with Yorkshire Water Services Ltd., industrialists and Finally, the N RA wishes to establish strong involvement landowners to ensure that through effective regulation all and links with local authorities, water companies, internal water quality objectives are met in the future. Abstraction drainage boards, industry, landowners, farmers, of surface water for public supply is a major feature in the environmental organisations and the general public to lower part of the catchment, notably from the River Ouse. ensure local views are respected when future development The Authority recognises this vital use and will work to decisions are made for the catchment. We will therefore ensure optimum utilisation of this finite resource whilst work with all relevant parties to implement the principles protecting all other aspects of the water environment. of sustainable development. Groundwater quality and quantity will be monitored and protected following the guidelines in the “Policy and Practice for the Protection of Groundwater”.

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 2 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan National inerj Authority

2. INTRODUCTION 3. REVIEW OF THE CONSULTATION PROCESS

The National Rivers Authority (NRA) was established in The Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse Catchment Management 1989 to safeguard and improve the water environment in Plan Consultation Report was launched on 24 May 1994 at England and Wales. Our Mission Statement expresses the which time it was distributed to local authorities, industry, following principles: We will protect and improve the landowners, environmental groups, sport and recreation water environment by the effective management of water groups and the public. resources and by substantial reductions in pollution. We The Consultation Report concentrated on the issues in the will aim to provide effective defence for people and catchment and possible management options for their property against flooding from rivers and the sea. In solution. During the three month consultation period that discharging our duties we will operate openly and balance followed it was hoped that parties would confirm the range the interests of all who benefit from and use rivers, and extent of catchment uses and activities; express views groundwaters, estuaries and coastal waters. We will be on the issues facing the water environment; suggest how businesslike, efficient and caring to our employees. the strategies and action plans should be progressed and To achieve these objectives the NRA uses its resources to: identify actions of other bodies for inclusion in the • Maintain existing assets and invest in new assets to Catchment Management Plan. provide flood protection, manage water resources and During the consultation period an informal open evening provide other NRA services. was held at the Kings Head Hotel, Richmond to discuss the • Control pollution by working with dischargers to report and a series of ad-hoc meetings held with various achieve improvements and ensuring emergency response interest groups to discuss issues arising. is efficient and effective. Five hundred Consultation Reports and a large number of • Determine, police, enforce and where applicable, review supporting documents were distributed during the the conditions in water abstraction licences, discharge consultation period. This process resulted in 50 written consents and land drainage consents to balance differing responses being received, the comments from which have and sometimes conflicting needs whilst protecting the been considered and where possible, incorporated into water environment. this Plan. • Develop fisheries and promote recreation, conservation The Plan is a strategic policy framework for the and navigation where appropriate. management of the catchment and will form the basis for • Influence planning authorities to control development improvements to the water environment by outlining areas through Town and Country planning legislation. of work and investment proposed by the NRA and others. Catchment Management Planning is a process designed to This document primarily covers a five year period from January 1995 to December 1999 although certain projects create a consistent framework within which the diverse responsibilities of the N RA can be applied within a may take longer due to funding availability and government policy. catchment in a co-ordinated manner. It is a procedure by which issues and opportunities within a catchment are Comments on the Consultation Report were received from assessed and actions proposed to optimise the future well 7 individuals and the following organisations: being of the water environment. The purpose, therefore of Bedale and Upper Swale IDB this Catchment Management Plan, is to define a strategy British Sugar for realising the environmental potential of the Rivers British Waterways Swale, Ure and Ouse within the prevailing economic and Claro IDB political constraints for a five year period. Country Landowners Association Countryside Commission

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 3 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan Council for the Protection of Rural England 4. OVERVIEW OF THE CATCHMENT English Heritage The River Swale originates as a series of small becks on the English Nature Northern Pennines within the Yorkshire Dales National Forest Enterprise Park. At Grinton it is joined by Arkle Beck and flows Forestry Authority eastwards along Swaledale passing through Richmond and Foss Action Group Catterick. The river then turns southeastward and flows J.G. Hills FRICS parallel to the A1 until its confluence with the River Ure Hambleton District Council approximately 2 miles east of Boroughbridge. The Swale is Harrogate Borough Council joined by many tributaries between Catterick and the River Hawes & High Abbotside Fishing Ass. Ure, the major ones being Bedale Beck, the River Wiske Hazelwoods Preserves and Cod Beck. HMIP The River Ure also rises on the Pennines within the National Park and is formed by the combination of several Leeds City Council small becks in and around the town of Hawes. Along its Lightwater Quarries Ltd length it is joined by several major tributaries, namely the Lower Ouse IDB River Bain, Bishopdale Beck, River Cover, River Burn, MAFF River Skell and the River Tutt. Unlike other rivers of the Marston Moor IDB area, the Dale through which the Ure flows is named after a National Farmers Union local village rather than the river, hence the somewhat National Power anomalous fact that the River Ure flows through North Yorkshire County Council Wensleydale. Both rivers flow through the beautiful Dales Office of Water Trading (OFWAT) landscape of limestone escarpments, flower rich meadows RAF Leeming and ancient woodland reflecting the history of land Ramblers Association management over the centuries. This landscape has Richmondshire District Council particular value for nature conservation reflected in the number of national and local conservation designations, as Ripon Motor Boat Club well as for its amenity, heritage and archaeological interest. Salmon and Trout Association After its confluence with the Swale, the Ure flows south Selby District Council east to eventually become known as the River Ouse from Selby ID B the point where Ousegill Beck enters to the west of Terrys Suchard Linton-on-Ouse. From this point the River Ouse flows Tidy Britain Group south through the agriculturally productive Vale of York Unitrition International Ltd and the City itself to Naburn Weir below which the river York City Council is tidal. York Waterworks Pic Tributaries of the Ouse include the Rivers Kyle and Foss, Yorkshire Dales National Park together with the Nidd and Wharfe, Derwent and Aire Yorkshire Electricity Group Pic which are the subject of separate catchment plans. Yorkshire Water Services Ltd The drainage area of the largely rural Swale, Ure and Ouse Yorkshire Wildlife Trust catchment is 3286 km2 to the confluence with the River Aire. Several centres of population exist within the catchment including Richmond, Northallerton, Thirsk, Ripon, York

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 4 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan and Selby with a combined population of 146,800 (based The Consultation Report classified 1735.5km using the on 1991 Census Data). National Water Council (NWC) scheme. Presently data is The area is crossed by major road and rail links and the only available to classify 654.2km using the GQA scheme tidal river is an important navigational route. (see Issue C for additional clarification). Agreed uses and activities within the catchment include Length of Canal in GQA Class: 1991 - 1993 data. surface water abstraction, groundwater supply and km % protection, effluent disposal, solid waste disposal, land use, Class E 8.4 100 agriculture and forestry, conservation, archaeology and Flood Protection heritage, amenity, recreation and navigation, fisheries, Length of Designated Main River: 311 km angling, mineral extraction and mining, flood defence, Length of raised Flood Defences on Main River (both flood warning and future development. banks): 244 km Number of People and Property Protected from Flooding: Key Details 6600 House Equivalents Administrative Details Water Resources County Councils: Humberside, North Yorkshire. Total number of Licensed Surface Water Abstractions: 460 Total number of Licensed Groundwater Abstractions: 498 District Councils: Boothferry, Eden, Hambleton, Harrogate, Leeds City, Conservation Richmondshire, Ryedale, Selby, Number of Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty Teesdale, York City. (A O N B): 2 Water Companies: Northumbrian Water Ltd, Number of SSSIs: 55 York Waterworks Pic, Yorkshire Water Services Ltd. 5. RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN LAND USE AND THE National Parks: Yorkshire Dales. WATER ENVIRONMENT

Navigation Authorities: British Waterways - Ripon The broad objective of catchment management planning is Canal, Selby Canal, Ouse to conserve and enhance the total river environment and Ure; through effective land and resource management. However, Linton Lock Commissioners - while the N RA is well placed to influence some of the Linton Lock; York City factors affecting the water environment, particularly in Council - Foss only. relation to the river corridor itself, it has very little control Water Quality over the mechanisms which determine land use change on a Length of Classified River in General Quality Assessment catchment-wide basis. This is largely the responsibility of (GQA) Class : 1991 - 1993 data. local planning authorities through the implementation of km % of classified watercourse the Town and Country Planning Acts. Class A 129.4 19.8 The policies in statutory development plans are important Class B 357.6 54.6 in this regard in that they set out the framework for land Class C 79.6 12.2 use change, and provide the key reference in determining development applications; the NRA encourages the Class D 22.0 3.4 inclusion of policies which reflect its concerns and Class E 62.6 9.5 responsibilities. Class F 3.0 0.5 The crucial role of planning authorities in determining Total 654.2 100.0 development of the urban and rural environment and

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 5 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan its subsequent impact on the water environment cannot The issues are presented along with the overall objectives, be overstated. actions needed to achieve the objectives and identification The local planning authorities are responsible for the of responsible parties. General information about each determination of land use changes and promoting forward particular issue can be found directly under the heading. planning policies. As a statutory consultee the NRA Activities have only been included in the Action Plan provides local planning authorities with guidance where we believe there is a significant chance of them statements to assist them in formulating policies for happening and for which resources are likely to be inclusion in their plans which reflect the NRA’s concerns available. However, the Action Plan is dynamic and will and responsibilities including the statutory requirement to change and evolve on a regular basis as opportunities arise conserve and enhance the water environment and for the public, private and voluntary sectors to work associated lands. Addressing water issues will assist the together to deliver the identified objectives. formulation of settlement strategies, the location, Wherever possible, estimated costs are identified for the attractiveness and sustainability of developments. It will period covered by this plan. A number of actions within also improve the quality of policies for landscape, nature the plan may require feasibility studies and appraisal of and urban conservation, recreation and tourism. Plans options prior to work commencing. In some cases this may sensitive to water matters will be protecting and enhancing mean the solving of issues may not be viable. Certain a vital natural resource and the surrounding environment. projects within this plan will be subject to an internal As a guidance for local authorities, the NRA has prepared a bidding process and may be reprioritised accordingly. set of statements relating to the broad headings of water In the tables, the following abbreviations are used: quality and water resources, flood defence, fisheries, < = Less than, conservation, recreation and navigation in the river pa = Per Annum. corridor and mineral workings and waste disposal. These $ = Activity added as a result of the Consultation. statements are summarised in the NRA’s “Guidance Notes - = Expenditure expected in year indicated. for Local Planning Authorities on the Methods of U = Unknown or unavailable costs. Protecting the Water Environment through Development CCTV = Close Circuit Television Plans”. This Catchment Management Plan sets out issues DoT = Department of Transport and actions specific to this catchment which have been EN = English Nature agreed within the framework of these Guidance Notes. FWAG = Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group Continued consistent involvement of the NRA in the IDB = Internal Drainage Board production of local, strategic and national plans is vital to LA = Local Authority the well-being of the water environment. Production of LPA = Local Planning Authority Catchment Management Plans outlining the NRA’s vision MAFF = Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food for sustainable development are seen as important NYCC = North Yorkshire County Council documents to maintain and promote close liaison with all RDC = Ryedale District Council development bodies. RSPS = River Swale Preservation Society STW = Sewage Treatment Works 6. ACTION PLAN UWWTD = Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive YDNP = Yorkshire Dales National Park The proposed Action Plan is based around 11 key issues - YWS = Yorkshire Water Services Ltd labelled A to K - which arc detailed in the following tables. YWT = Yorkshire Wildlife Trust Each issue relates to problem areas or opportunities YWW = York Waterworks pic identified in the Consultation Report, either of a strategic or geographical nature. N.B. All costs are NRA figures unless otherwise stated.

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 6 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan ISSUE A: Wafer Resources Management and those of the abstractors. To aid the management of the water resource, the The National Rivers Authority has a duty to conserve, Authority has published National and Regional Water redistribute, augment and ensure the proper use of Resource Strategies which will be implemented in the water resources. As part of this duty, the N RA ’s role is to catchment. The Authority will continue its routine regulate the water companies, hydropower and other programme of river flow, rainfall and groundwater level abstractors to ensure that in managing the resource a monitoring. balance is achieved between the needs of the environment

No. OBJECTIVE ACTIONS RESPONSIBILITY COST(fK) 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 FUTURE LEAD OTHER

Al Ensure the proper Employ consultants to NRA CONSUL- 20 management and undertake a National TANTS pan of development of surface review of existing national water resources. policies for the contract determination of surface water abstraction licences.

Implement amended NRA U licensing guidelines.

Negotiate with and NRA YWS monitor the water YWW companies progress on leakage, conjunctive use, source opti misation and demand management to ensure optimum utilisation.

A2 Ensure the proper Review existing NRA management and policy for the development of ground determination of water resources. groundwater abstraction licences.

Implement amended NRA licensing guidelines.

A3 Assess the effects of Utilise existing R & D NRA different flow and information and water resource available data to regimes on the report on the impact of ecology of river low flows in the Swale, communities. Ure and Ouse catchment.

Assess the need for a NRA long term monitoring programme on the ecological effects of low flows.

A4 Determine the Identify the issues NRA environmental associated with this implications of the potential development Tees/Swale/Wiske proposal. inter-river transfer option.

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 7 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan ISSUE B: Aquifer Protection pollution through the underground seepage of contaminants. Once polluted it is extremely difficult and In general, groundwater has a high standard of quality, costly to alleviate the pollution. Some groundwater also both microbiologically and chemically and therefore moves very slowly which means that it sometimes takes a usually requires little treatment prior to use. Groundwater long time for any pollution to be manifested. is vulnerable to many activities that can cause insidious

No. OBJECTIVE ACTIONS RESPONSIBILITY C0ST(£K) 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 FUTURE LEAD OTHER

B 1 Protect the quality of Implement the NRA NRA YWS lOpa groundwater within Groundwater Protection INDUSTRY the catchment. Policy through staff training and promotion of the guidelines to planning authorities, landowners and dischargers within the the catchment.

B2 Protect major ground Groundwater protection NRA CONSUL- 15 water abstractions zones will be defined TANTS from contamination. for the major ground water sources that are used for potable supply.

B3 Develop groundwater Set up a groundwater NRA 14 quality monitoring quality monitoring network. network, as per National guidelines.

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 8 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan ISSUE C: Water Quality Management For each stretch of river, a target RE class will be assigned, including a date by which this level of water quality should The NRA uses two principal schemes for the reporting and be achieved. Until WQOs are formally established by legal management of river water quality: the general quality Notice served by the Secretary of State, and therefore exist assessment (GQA) scheme; and the statutory water quality on a statutory basis, they will be applied on a non-statutory objectives (WQOs) scheme. These schemes have replaced basis through a translation of River Quality Objectives the water quality classification system used previously by (RQOs) from NWC classes to appropriate RE classes and the N RA (the NW C classification). target dates. The GQA scheme is used to make periodic assessments of Additional sampling points have been included in the the quality of river water in order to monitor geographical catchment. The amended sampling programme became and temporal trends. The scheme comprises four effective in mid 1994 enabling a more accurate water components - general chemistry, nutrients, aesthetics and quality classification to be made in the N R A 1995 biology - each providing a discrete ‘window’ upon the quinquennial survey. The NRA aims to continue to achieve quality of river stretches. The general chemistry improvements to the water environment by taking a component of the G Q A is in current use, and comprises proactive role in pollution prevention. This involves six tiered grades defined by standards for Dissolved undertaking a programme of site visits to industrial Oxygen, BOD and Total Ammonia. The remaining three premises, farms, sewage pumping stations, combined sewer windows are still under development and will be applied overflows and sewage works to assess risks and giving when available. advice on pollution prevention measures. The intention is The WQO scheme establishes clear quality targets to to persuade and educate operators that good housekeeping provide a commonly-agreed planning framework for programmes which limit effluent production and spillage, regulatory bodies and dischargers alike. The proposed form part of the total management process resulting in WQO scheme is based upon the recognised uses to which a reduced costs and benefits to the water environment. river stretch may be put. These uses include: River The NRA also has a duty to monitor compliance of Ecosystem; Special Ecosystem; Abstraction for Potable consented discharges to assess their quality in relation to Supply; Agricultural/Industrial Abstraction and the conditions set within the consent. Watersports. The standards defining the five tiered River The Authority will adopt a firm and even handed approach Ecosystem (RE) use classes, which address the chemical with all dischargers and where the required improvements quality requirements of different types of aquatic are not being progressed within an acceptable timescale, ecosystems, were introduced by “The Surface Waters prosecution will be considered. (River Ecosystem) (Classification) Regulations 1994”. (Standards for further uses are still under development.)

No. OBJECTIVE ACTIONS RESPONSIBILITY COST(fK) 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 FUTURE LEAD OTHER

Cl Establish water Carry out the NRA’s NRA U S quality using the GQA quinquennial water water quality class quality survey. ification scheme and review water quality Review medium & longer NRA 10 targets. term non-statutory water quality objectives.

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 9 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan National Authority

No. OBJECTIVE ACTIONS RESPONSIBILITY C0ST(£K) 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 FUTURE LEAD OTHER

C2 Achieve water quality Undertake phased NRA INDUSTRY lOpa improvements in the investigations on Swale, Ure and Ouse industrial sites and catchment by effective recommend pollution pollution prevention prevention measures. measures. Use biological and NRA FARMERS IOpa chemical surveys to identify sub-catchments affected by agricult ural pollution. Carry out site visits to the farms responsible and investigate programmes for remedial action.

Continue to promote NRA YWS lOpa measures with YWS to INDUSTRY reduce pollution effects from public and private surface water sewers.

Prioritise the list of NRA YWS 2 problem CSO s submitted by YWS under AMP2 and plan the necessary programme of improvements.

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 10 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan ISSUE D: Ecology, Recreation and Amenity voluntary and community organisations and specialist interest groups and will, where possible, work in The N RA has duties, under the Water Resources Act 1991, co-operation with these bodies in order to achieve to maintain, improve and develop fisheries, to further our objectives. conservation, to promote recreation and to predict or Close liaison will also be maintained with other functions monitor biological impacts. and sections of the NRA in order to ensure a coherent and As part of these duties the Authority will liaise closely with integrated approach. other local and national authorities, with landowners, No. OBJECTIVE ACTIONS RESPONSIBILITY C0ST(£K) 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 FUTURE LEAD OTHER

Dl Promote land manage Continue support for NRA FWAG 5 pa ment practices that FWAG e.g. Bishop N YORKS increase the habitat Monkton Ings on the diversity of the water Ure. environment.

D2 Provide advice to Work with YDNP, NRA YDNP 10 pa landowners on the NYCC and landowners NYCC problems of bankside to encourage the use erosion and control of habitat creation methods in conjunction to help combat erosion with other agencies. and tipping problems.

D3 Protect and enhance Support otter YWT NRA 5 pa the opportunities for projects eg Otters & otter populations to Rivers Project and colonise the main research, to under rivers and tributaries stand otter in line with the distribution and national otter policy. factors influencing it, with particular reference to the Middle Swale.

D4 Protect native crayfish Maintain records of NRA MAFF/EN 1 pa in the catchment. native crayfish and LA resist proposals to introduce alien species into the catchment.

D5 Extend collaboration Offer to advise IDBs in NRA IDBs <1 pa to all Internal Drain establishing ecological age Boards within the components in their catchment to further maintenance programmes improvements of the and schemes. water environment.

D6 Investigate the Monitor ecological NRA 2.5 $ environmental impact of effects of hydropower any hydropower schemes schemes, especially on in the catchment fish. (proposed schemes at West Tanfield and Linton Lock).

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 11 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan Nation a I A utho rity

No. OBJECTIVE ACTIONS RESPONSIBILITY C0ST(£K) 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 FUTURE LEAD OTHER

D 7 Investigate obstructions Complete an inventory NRA 10 — $ to fish passage caused of obstructions to the by man-made structures. passage of fish and prioritise works to be carried out to allow free passage.

D8 Assess the impact that Undertake collaborative NRA ORN1TH- 1 piscivorous birds have work with ornitho OLOGICAL on fish populations. logical organisations ORGANIS to assess the potential ATIONS impact that goosanders and cormorants might have on the fish populations of the Rivers Swale and Ure.

D 9 Improve access and Encourage improvement N R A SPORT facilities for in facilities and ING individuals and the foster a balanced ORGANIS various recreational approach in the ATIONS interests in the development of access AND catchment, who wish to the water environ CLUBS/ to enjoy the water ment. For example LAND environment. support the completion OWNERS of a long distance path between York and Ripon.

Encourage angling clubs NRA ANGLING to set aside stretches CLUBS of match fishing lengths for use by non competing anglers, enabling a fuller use of the facility.

DIO Identify areas Continue to advise and NRA suitable for fish assist in the develop habitat improvement ment and/or creation of and collaborate with new still water others to achieve fisheries with such improvements. particular emphasis on waters to be made available to the general public through out the catchment.

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 12 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan ISSUE E: Flood Defence On ‘main river’ the NRA has permissive powers to undertake works when it can be demonstrated that The NRA aims to provide effective defence against these are environmentally and economically acceptable. flooding, appropriate to the use of the land affected This involves provision, maintenance and operation of whether this be urban or agricultural. This role is fulfilled flood defences and undertaking other appropriate land in three main ways; supervision, flood defence operations drainage works. and flood warning. The NRA also provides a flood forecasting and warning In accordance with the Water Resources Act 1991 the N RA service for areas at risk from flooding from ‘main river’. exercises a general supervision over all matters relating to Warnings are issued, in accordance with a national colour flood defence. This is primarily undertaken by liaison with coded system, to the police who implement emergency planning authorities over development in the catchment procedures as appropriate. Responsibility for providing and by powers of enforcement given by the Land Drainage assistance to the public lies with the District Councils. Act 1991 and the Water Rescources Act 1991.

No. OBJECTIVE RESPONSIBILITY C0ST(£K) 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 FUTURE LEAD OTHER

El Improve efficiency and Investigate and record NRA 40 effectiveness of the the condition of all NRA’s emergency existing flood defence response. structures within the catchment. Remaining actions for this objective are dependant on this.

Modify, where NRA U economically and practically possible flood defence structures to enable operation remotely utilising the Region s Telemetry System.

Consider replacing NRA <5 pa structures which cannot be readily adapted for remote operation.

Investigate the NRA <5 pa feasibility of providing CCTV at critical flood defence structures in order to improve safety and security.

E2 Improve NRA maintained Develop plans for NRA <5 assets from a conservation selected sites. and amenity aspect without reducing their operational performance.

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 1_3 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan No. OBJECTIVE ACTIONS RESPONSIBILITY C0ST(£K) 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 FUTURE LEAD OTHER

t r E3 Provide and maintain Investigate and record NRA flood defences. the condition of Flood Defence Assets and prepare a priority based programme for repair, renewal and maintenance. Determine the most cost effective standards for each length and maintain to those standards. In preparing the programme the NRA will consider the implications of ‘doing nothing’ and implementing changes to current methods of operation.

Investigate the N R A LAND U provision of additional OWNERS relief outfalls to evacuate flood water from washlands as soon as possible after the flood has subsided.

E4 Provide and maintain a Continue to liaise with NRA LA 30pa timely, reliable and the police and local POLICE accurate flood warning authorities to ensure service. that procedures are in place to respond to NRA warnings. Continue to refine and improve the flood warning system through incorporation of the Regional Tele metry System and the River Flow Forecasting System.

F15 Manage water levels to Formulate water level NRA MAFF/EN 10 $ balance the requirements management plans for ID B/LA per plan of flood defence, an agreed list of sites. agriculture, and conservation.

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 14 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan ISSUE F: Future Development protect the public and the environment from any adverse effects associated with development in relation to surface Future residential, commercial and industrial development water and groundwater. is identified in County Structure Plans, District Local Plans Continued involvement of the NRA in the planning and Unitary Development Plans. These documents identify process and production of local, strategic and national policies against which the planning authorities consider plans is seen to be of vital importance; Catchment development proposals. Management Plans are an essential tool in this The NRA’s purpose in participating in the planning process liaison process. is to provide guidance to the relevant authorities so as to

No. OBJECTIVE ACTIONS RESPONSIBILITY C0ST(£K) 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 FUTURE LEAD OTHER

FI Participate in Participate fully in NRA LPA 16 pa the local authority the development control planning process to process and where ensure protection of necessary oppose any the water environment proposals that will damage the water environment.

Participate fully in NRA LPA/DEV- 8 pa the strategic planning ELOPERS process and provide guidance to local councils on methods of protecting the water environment through their development plans.

F2 Increase liaison with Continue involvement NRA 2 pa the planning with local environ authorities, outside -mental groups as a organisations and means of co-ordinating members of the public activities along the to promote the aims of river to achieve the National Rivers environmental protect Authority. ion and improvements.

F3 Ensure that the NRA’s Positively promote the NRA LPA } Catchment Management concept of catchment OTHERS } Plan is adopted as a management planning. I 4 pa strategy for the } future management of Monitor and review the NRA } the water environment CMP anually. of the Swale, Ure and Ouse catchment.

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 15 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan ISSUE G: River Swale Beck through improvements in sewage effluent. The focus for ecology and recreation on the River Swale is habitat The River Swale rises in Upper Swaledale in the Yorkshire creation to provide bank stabilisation, prevent erosion and Dales National Park. This upper section is steep and the support established fish populations. These works will be dale itself narrow and steep-sided resulting in the flashy monitored to gauge the improvements achieved. The nature of the river. The river remains almost completely proposed improvement to the Al will impact on both the natural until Brompton-on-Swale. From this point River Swale and some of its tributaries. The N RA aims to significant stretches of the river have been straightened and minimise the impact of these proposals. floodbanks are commonplace. The river meanders widely Flooding occurs throughout the River Swale sub through the Vale of York and joins the River Ure just east catchment. Kirby Wiske has been identified as an area of Boroughbridge. where more specific flood warnings may be possible. Much of the river is of high water quality but improvements are sought on the River Wiske and Cod

No. OBJECTIVE ACTIONS RESPONSIBILITY C0ST(£K) 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 FUTURE LEAD OTHER

Water Quality G l Achieve R Q O on the Ensure scheduled impr NRA YWS <0.5 Bv end River Wiske and ovements at North- of 2000 tributaries. allerton STW and Romanby STW take place to achieve compliance with the EC Freshwater Fisheries Directive.

Seek to get additional NRA YWS <0.5 By end improvements at of 2000 Northallerton and Romanby STWs to achieve RQ O with available YWS AMP2 discretionary money.

Identify and control N RA FARMERS 5pa sources of agricultural and other pollution supported by a chemical and biological quality survey of the Wiske and tributaries upstream of Northallerton.

Ecology G2 Determine the impact Assess whether NRA <0.5 of acidification on measures available to the aquatic ecosystem ameliorate impacts are in tributary streams required. of the River Swale at Whitsundale, Birkdale, Arkle and Marske Becks.

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 16 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan No. OBJECTIVE ACTIONS RESPONSIBILITY C0ST(£K) 1997 1998 1999 FUTURE LEAD OTHER

G3 Monitor and evaluate Collate data on fish NRA ANGLING the stocking of fish stocks in the river CLUBS into the River Swale. using match returns and survey work.

Evaluate data collected NRA ANGLING on fish populations CLUBS and current angling use to ensure fish stocking is responsive to the data collected.

G4 Identify areas suitable Assess the NRA ANGLING U for fish habitat improve effectiveness of CLUBS/ ment and collaborate Cundall fish haven for LAND with others to achieve future design. OWNERS such improvements. $ Undertake in river and NRA RSPS bankside enhancement work between Langton and Skipton-on-Swalc.

Examine the benefits of NRA any enhancement work to fish populations and angling.

G5 Minimise the impact of Limit, through the NRA LPA in river gravel planning process, and workings. relevant NRA consents unnecessary removal of in river gravels.

Evaluate the study on NRA the ecological value of gravel shoals. Flood Defence G6 Provide and maintain Investigate the possiblity NRA POLICE a timely, reliable and of providing warnings LA accurate warning system. for Kirby Wiske. Appropriate warnings will be implemented in co operation with the police and local authorities.

Future Development G 7 Ensure that there is Ensure that the NRA’s NRA LPA no increased risk of interests are not DoT flooding or damage adversely affected by caused to habitats, the A1 widening which flora and fauna, involves crossing the including fisheries River Swale and when determining tributaries. proposals to culvert, divert or alter a watercourse and its banks or change the use of flood plain.

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 17 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan ISSUE H: River Ure become commonplace after Boroughbridge. Water quality improvements are sought for localised The River Ure rises in Upper Wensleydale in the Yorkshire problems such as the effluent quality from WCF Dales National Park. From open moorland the valley falls Foods Ltd, Boroughbridge. Another key issue will steeply through limestone escarpments to the flat flood be to produce a protection strategy for the valuable plain, which lie to the east of Leyburn. Between Hawes and limestone headwater streams. The enhancement of fish Aysgarth the river meanders from one side of the valley to spawning and nursery areas together with the impact of the other. At Aysgarth the river drops sharply over layers fish farms on the ecosystem will be of particular interest of limestone in a series of waterfalls. Shortly after Aysgarth on the River Ure. The widening of the A1 has impacted the river leaves the National Park and again meanders on the River Ure and tributaries. The NRA will continue across a flood plain. Between Masham and West Tanfield to seek to minimise the impact. Flooding occurs and down towards Ripon the valley narrows with steeper, throughout the length of the River Ure, however, Roecliffe densely wooded slopes. near Boroughbridge has been identified as requiring The River Ure remains almost completely natural for most further investigation. of its course, though the land flattens out and floodbanks

No. OBJECTIVE ACTIONS RESPONSIBILITY C0ST(£K) 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 FUTURE LEAD * OTHER

Water Quality HI Alleviate localised Ensure that WCF Foods NRA WCF <0.5 pollution in the Ltd achieve consistent FOODS River Ure from WCF compliance with LTD Foods Ltd, discharge consent Boroughbridge. conditions.

Ecology FI2 Monitor the impact of Continue biological NRA fish farms on river surveys to assess the ecology to help target effect of fish farm farms where improve abstractions and ments are needed. discharges on the receiving waters in the Masham area on the River Ure.

H3 Investigate the impact Instigate a programme NRA of ‘escapes’ from fish of fish surveys above farms on native and below the fish populations of trout. farms causing concern.

H4 Investigate the impact Assess whether NRA <0.5 of acidification on measures available to the aquatic ecosystem ameliorate impacts are in tributary streams required. of the Burn, Cover and Skell.

H5 Produce a protection Utilise existing data, NRA 0.5 strategy for limestone plus, if necessary, headwater streams on additional studies in the River Ure. the area to consider conservation value and bio-diversity, and develop a protection strategy.

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse ^8 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan National A utbority

No. OBJECTIVE RESPONSIBILITY C0ST(£K) 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 FUTURE LEAD OTHER

H6 Identity areas Enhance fish spawning NRA ANGLING 1.5pa suitable for fishery areas and nursery areas CLUBS habitat improvement through appropriate and collaborate with management, eg willow others to achieve such planting, installation improvements. of instrcam structures and cleaning of gravels and assess effective ness by pre and post installation surveys.

Identify areas suitable NRA for habitat improvements: Source to Aysgarth; Aysgarth to Boroughbridge; Boroughbridge to Ouse.

H7 Examine effects of Assess the extent of NRA $ Boroughbridge Flood fish entrapment in Defence Scheme on the flood relief fisheries. channel.

Recommend further NRA detailed study if possible improvement measures are identified.

Flood Defence 118 Provide and maintain Investigate the NRA $ flood defences. feasibility of providing economically and environmentally acceptable flood defences at Roecliffe, Boroughbridge.

Future Development H9 Ensure that there is Ensure that the NRA’s NRA LPA no increased risk of interests arc not DoT flooding, or damage adversely affected by caused to habitats, the Al widening which flora and fauna, involves crossing the including fisheries, River Ure and when determining tributaries. proposals to culvert, divert or alter a watercourse and its banks or change the use of flood plain.

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 19 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan ISSUE I: Non-Tidal River Ouse sites and to have accurate time travel models available if pollution does occur. The N RA will work with other After its confluence with the Swale the River Ure flows agencies to enhance the recreation and amenity value of the southeast and just to the west of Linton-on-Ouse becomes River Ouse. Particular consideration will be given to the known as the River Ouse, where Ousegill Beck runs in. impact of water abstraction on the ecology of river From this point the River Ouse flows south as a freshwater communities. South Esplanade and King’s Staith in York river through the City of York to Naburn Weir below have been identified as areas where flood defence indicative which the river is tidal. target standards of service are not met. The possibility of Water quality issues include pro-active pollution providing defences will be considered. prevention measures to prevent pollution from industrial

No. OBJECTIVE ACTIONS RESPONSIBILITY C0ST(£K) 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 FUTURE LEAD OTHER

Water Quality II Maintain the water Undertake phased inves NRA 10 pa quality of the River tigations on industrial Ouse upstream of York sites and recommend to meet the standards pollution prevention required for potable measures. supply abstraction at both Moor Monkton and Continue to update ADZ NRA 15 Acomb. time of travel models to aid the management of pollution incidents.

12 Achieve R Q O on the Ensure scheduled NRA YWS <0.5 By end River Ouse downstream improvements at Naburn of 2000 of York. STW take place to maintain compliance with the EC Freshwater Fisheries Directive.

Seek to get additional NRA YWS <0.5 improvements at Naburn STW to achieve RQO with available YWS AMP2 discretionary money.

Require improved NRA YWS <0.5 operation of Fulford Pumping Station and Storm Tanks.

13 Review water quality Provide baseline NRA U data and develop a chemical and biological sampling strategy to information to prior assess the quality of itise actions within the River Kyle and a campaign for effluent tributaries. improvement throughout the sub-catchment.

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 20 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan No. OBJECTIVE ACTIONS RESPONSIBILITY C0ST(£K) 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 FUTURE LEAD OTHER

Continue the programme NRA FARMERS 5 pa of farm visits to advise on best practice and promote schemes for termination of remain ing farm effluent discharges and monitor effectiveness of actions.

Continue investigative NRA biological work in the upper sub-catchment areas.

14 When appropriate, Investigate the NRA U develop a multi potential impact of functional strategy to mine closures, within consider the impact of the Selby coalfield, on the possible mine the ecology of the closures in the area. water environment and develop a strategy for the limitation of any damaging impacts.

Ecology 15 Assess the effects of Liaise with YWS on the YWS NRA $ the Ouse Abstraction installation of screens scheme on the ecology and assess the impact of river communities. on fish mortality at Moor Monkton intake.

Recrcation and Amenity 16 Improve the amenity Explore the feasibility RDC NRA 0.5 and recreation value of a jointly funded of the River Ouse ‘Water Environment around York, where Ranger’. appropriate.

Flood Defence 17 Provide and maintain Investigate the NRA LA flood defences. possibility of LAND providing economically OWNERS and environmentally acceptable flood defences for King’s Staith and South Esplanade in York.

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 21 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan ISSUE J: River Foss and Tributaries fish which are common. Improvements are sought in effluent quality from a The mainly low lying land surrounding the River Foss is number of sewage treatment works which drain into the intensively farmed and becomes urbanised as the river Foss and tributaries. The NRA will continue to work flows through York. The river has to deal with effluent closely with interested local groups and organisations to from sewage treatment works, agricultural run off and promote the aims of the Authority. Blockages caused by litter. Habitats have been lost through developments or debris have in the past caused operational problems with land drainage. Despite these pressures the slow flows of sluices which control water levels in the Foss. Changes in the River Foss and high nutrient levels enable aquatic the operation of these sluices will be investigated. flora such as water lilies and reeds to grow. Healthy plant life in turn attracts invertebrates and populations of coarse No. OBJECTIVE ACTIONS RESPONSIBILITY C0ST(£K) 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 FUTURE LEAD OTHER

Water Resources Ensure the proper Employ consultants to NRA CONSULT- U management and investigate the ANTS development of surface amelioration of low water resources. flows in the River Foss.

Water Quality J 2 Achieve RQ O on the Ensure scheduled impr NRA YWS <0.5 River Foss downstream ovements in effluent of Walbutts STW and treatment at Walbutts improve the quality of STW take place to Osbaldwick and Tang ensure compliance with Hall Becks. UWWTD Sensitive Area requirements.

Seek to get additional NRA YWS <0.5 By end improvements at of Walbutts STW to achieve 2000 RQO with available YWS AMP2 discretionary money.

Completion of the East NRA YWS <0.5 York ring main and closure of Osbaldwick and Stockton-on-Forest STWs will improve the quality of Osbaldwick and Tang Hall Becks. Further chemical and biological surveys will be carried out to assess the situation on completion.

J3 Achieve RQ O on the Continue the programme NRA FARMERS Spa River Foss upstream of of farm visits to Walbutts STW. advise on best practice and promote schemes for termination of remaining farm effluent discharges.

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 22 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan ISSUE J: River Foss and Tributaries fish which are common. Improvements are sought in effluent quality from a The mainly low lying land surrounding the River Foss is number of sewage treatment works which drain into the intensively farmed and becomes urbanised as the river Foss and tributaries. The NRA will continue to work flows through York. The river has to deal with effluent closely with interested local groups and organisations to from sewage treatment works, agricultural run off and promote the aims of the Authority. Blockages caused by litter. Habitats have been lost through developments or debris have in the past caused operational problems with land drainage. Despite these pressures the slow flows of sluices which control water levels in the Foss. Changes in the River Foss and high nutrient levels enable aquatic the operation of these sluices will be investigated. flora such as water lilies and reeds to grow. Healthy plant life in turn attracts invertebrates and populations of coarse No. OBJECTIVE ACTIONS RESPONSIBILITY C0ST(£K) 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 FUTURE LEAD OTHER

Water Resources J1 Ensure the proper Employ consultants to NRA CONSULT- U management and investigate the ANTS development of surface amelioration of low water resources. flows in the River Foss.

Water Quality J2 Achieve RQO on the Ensure scheduled impr NRA YWS <0.5 River Foss downstream ovements in effluent of Walbutts STW and treatment at Walbutts improve the quality of STW take place to Osbaldwick and Tang ensure compliance with Hall Becks. UWWTD Sensitive Area requirements.

Seek to get additional NRA YWS <0.5 By end improvements at Walbutts STW to achieve RQO with available YWS AMP2 discretionary money.

J3 Achieve RQO on the Continue the programme N R A FARMERS 5 pa River Foss upstream of of farm visits to Walbutts STW. advise on best practice and promote schemes for termination of remaining farm effluent discharges.

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 22 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan v— CD i/> H—

No. OBJECTIVE ACTIONS RESPONSIBILITY > 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 FUTURE LEAD OTHER

Continue the programme NRA FARMERS 5 pa

advise on best practice and promote schemes for termination of remain ing farm effluent discharges and monitor effectiveness of actions.

Continue investigative NRA biological work in the upper sub-catchment

Recreation and Amenity 16 Improve the amenity Explore the feasibility RDC NRA 0.5 and recreation value of a jointly funded of the River Ouse ‘Water Environment around York, where Ranger’. appropriate.

Flood Defence 17 Provide and maintain Investigate the NRA LA 5 flood defences. possibility of LAND providing economically OWNERS and environmentally acceptable flood defences for King’s Staith and South Esplanade in York.

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 21 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan ISSUE I: Non-Tidal River Ouse sites and to have accurate time travel models available if pollution does occur. The NRA will work with other After its confluence with the Swale the River Ure flows agencies to enhance the recreation and amenity value of the southeast and just to the west of Linton-on-Ouse becomes River Ouse. Particular consideration w'ill be given to the known as the River Ouse, where Ousegill Beck runs in. impact of water abstraction on the ecology of river From this point the River Ouse flows south as a freshwater communities. South Esplanade and King’s Staith in York river through the City of York to Naburn Weir below have been identified as areas where flood defence indicative which the river is tidal. target standards of service are not met. The possibility of Water quality issues include pro-active pollution providing defences will be considered. prevention measures to prevent pollution from industrial

No. OBJECTIVE ACTIONS RESPONSIBILITY COST(CK) 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 FUTURE LEAD OTHER

Water Quality II Maintain the water Undertake phased inves NRA 10 pa quality of the River tigations on industrial Ouse upstream of York sites and recommend to meet the standards pollution prevention required for potable measures. supply abstraction at $ both Moor Monkton and Continue to update ADZ NRA 15 Acomb. time of travel models to aid the management of pollution incidents.

12 Achieve RQO on the Ensure scheduled NRA YWS <0.5 By end River Ouse downstream improvements at Naburn of 2000 of York. STW take place to maintain compliance with the EC Freshwater Fisheries Directive.

Seek to get additional NRA YWS <0.5 improvements at Naburn STW to achieve RQO with available YWS AMP2 discretionary money.

Require improved NRA YWS <0.5 operation of Fulford Pumping Station and Storm Tanks.

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 20 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan National Authority

No. OBJECTIVE ACTIONS RESPONSIBILITY C0ST(£K) 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 FUTURE LEAD OTHER

H6 Identify areas Enhance fish spawning NRA ANGLING 1.5pa suitable for fishery areas and nursery areas CLUBS habitat improvement through appropriate and collaborate with management, eg willow others to achieve such planting, installation improvements. of instream structures and cleaning of gravels and assess effective ness by pre and post installation surveys.

Identify areas suitable NRA <5 for habitat improvements: Source to Aysgarth; Aysgarth to Boroughbridge; Boroughbridge to Ouse.

H 7 Examine effects of Assess the extent of NRA <5 $ Boroughbridgc Flood fish entrapment in Defence Scheme on the flood relief fisheries. channel.

Recommend further NRA 1.5 detailed study if possible improvement measures arc identified.

Flood Defence FI 8 Provide and maintain Investigate the NRA 10 $ flood defences. feasibility of providing economically and environmentally acceptable flood defences at Roecliffe, Boroughbridge.

Future Development H9 Ensure that there is Ensure that the N RA ’s NRA LPA <5 no increased risk of interests are not DoT flooding, or damage adversely affected by caused to habitats, the Al widening which flora and fauna, involves crossing the including fisheries, River Ure and when determining tributaries. proposals to culvert, divert or alter a watercourse and its banks or change the use of flood plain.

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 19 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan ISSUE H: River Ure become commonplace after Boroughbridge. Water quality improvements are sought for localised The River Ure rises in Upper Wensleydale in the Yorkshire problems such as the effluent quality from WCF Dales National Park. From open moorland the valley falls Foods Ltd, Boroughbridge. Another key issue will steeply through limestone escarpments to the flat flood be to produce a protection strategy for the valuable plain, which lie to the east of Leyburn. Between Hawes and limestone headwater streams. The enhancement of fish Aysgarth the river meanders from one side of the valley to spawning and nursery areas together with the impact of the other. At Aysgarth the river drops sharply over layers fish farms on the ecosystem will be of particular interest of limestone in a series of waterfalls. Shortly after Aysgarth on the River Ure. The widening of the Al has impacted the river leaves the National Park and again meanders on the River Ure and tributaries. The NRA will continue across a flood plain. Between Masham and West Tanfield to seek to minimise the impact. Flooding occurs and down towards Ripon the valley narrows with steeper, throughout the length of the River Ure, however, Roecliffe densely wooded slopes. near Boroughbridge has been identified as requiring The River Ure remains almost completely natural for most further investigation. of its course, though the land flattens out and floodbanks No. OBJECTIVE ACTIONS RESPONSIBILITY C0ST(£K) 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 FUTURE LEAD OTHER

Water Quality Hi Alleviate localised Ensure that WCF Foods NRA WCF <0.5 pollution in the Ltd achieve consistent FOODS River Ure from WCF compliance with LTD Foods Ltd, discharge consent Boroughbridge. conditions.

Ecology H2 Monitor the impact of Continue biological NRA fish farms on river surveys to assess the ecology to help target effect of fish farm farms where improve abstractions and ments are needed. discharges on the receiving waters in the Masham area on the River Ure.

H3 Investigate the impact Instigate a programme NRA of ‘escapes’ from fish of fish surveys above farms on native and below the fish populations of trout. farms causing concern.

H4 Investigate the impact Assess whether NRA <0.5 of acidification on measures available to the aquatic ecosystem ameliorate impacts are in tributary streams required. of the Burn, Cover and Skell.

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse January 1995 Catchment Management Plan National R izierjf Authority

No. OBJECTIVE ACTIONS RESPONSIBILITY C0ST(£K) 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 FUTURE LEAD OTHER

G3 Monitor and evaluate Collate data on fish NRA ANGLING } ------the stocking of fish stocks in the river CLUBS 1 into the River Swale. using match returns } and survey work. )3pa I1 Evaluate data collected NRA ANGLING 1 ------on fish populations CLUBS } and current angling 1 use to ensure fish 1 stocking is responsive } to the data collected. }

G4 Identify areas suitable Assess the NRA ANGLING U ------for fish habitat improve effectiveness of CLUBS/ ment and collaborate Cundall fish haven for LAND with others to achieve future design. OWNERS such improvements. $ Undertake in river and NRA RSPS 50 bankside enhancement work between Langton and Skipton-on-Swale.

$ Examine the benefits of NRA <1 ------any enhancement work to fish populations and angling.

G5 Minimise the impact of Limit, through the NRA LPA

Evaluate the study on NRA <0.5 the ecological value of gravel shoals. Flood Defence G6 Provide and maintain Investigate the possiblity NRA POLICE 10 a timely, reliable and of providing warnings LA accurate warning system. for Kirby Wiske. Appropriate warnings will be implemented in co operation with the police and local authorities.

Future Development G 7 Ensure that there is Ensure that the NRA’s NRA LPA <5 no increased risk of interests are not DoT flooding or damage adversely affected by caused to habitats, the A1 widening which flora and fauna, involves crossing the including fisheries River Swale and when determining tributaries. proposals to culvert, divert or alter a watercourse and its banks or change the use of flood plain.

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 17 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan ISSUE G: River Swale Beck through improvements in sewage effluent. The focus for ecology and recreation on the River Swale is habitat The River Swale rises in Upper Swaledale in the Yorkshire creation to provide bank stabilisation, prevent erosion and Dales National Park. This upper section is steep and the support established fish populations. These works will be dale itself narrow and steep-sided resulting in the flashy monitored to gauge the improvements achieved. The nature of the river. The river remains almost completely proposed improvement to the A1 will impact on both the natural until Brompton-on-Swale. From this point River Swale and some of its tributaries. The NRA aims to significant stretches of the river have been straightened and minimise the impact o f these proposals. floodbanks are commonplace. The river meanders widely Flooding occurs throughout the River Swale sub through the Vale of York and joins the River Ure just east catchment. Kirby Wiske has been identified as an area of Boroughbridge. where more specific flood warnings may be possible. Much of the river is of high water quality but improvements are sought on the River Wiske and Cod

No. OBJECTIVE ACTIONS RESPONSIBILITY (0ST(£K) 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 FUTURE LEAD OTHER

Water Quality Gl Achieve RQO on the Ensure scheduled impr NRA YWS <0.5 By end River Wiske and ovements at North of 2000 tributaries. allerton STW and Romanby STW take place to achieve compliance with the EC Freshwater Fisheries Directive.

Seek to get additional NRA YWS <0.5 By end improvements at of 2000 Northallerton and Romanby STWs to achieve RQO with available YWS AMP2 discretionary money.

Identify and control NRA FARMERS 5pa ------sources of agricultural and other pollution supported by a chemical and biological quality survey of the Wiske and tributaries upstream of Northallerton.

Ecology G2 Determine the impact Assess whether NRA <0.5 of acidification on measures available to the aquatic ecosystem ameliorate impacts are in tributary streams required, of the River Swale at Whitsundale, Birkdale, Arkle and Marske Becks.

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 16 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan ISSUE F: Future Development protect the public and the environment from any adverse effects associated with development in relation to surface Future residential, commercial and industrial development water and groundwater. is identified in County Structure Plans, District Local Plans Continued involvement of the N R A in the planning and Unitary Development Plans. These documents identify process and production of local, strategic and national policies against which the planning authorities consider plans is seen to be of vital importance; Catchment development proposals. Management Plans are an essential tool in this The NRA’s purpose in participating in the planning process liaison process. is to provide guidance to the relevant authorities so as to

No. OBJECTIVE ACTIONS 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 FUTURE LEAD OTHER

FI Participate in Participate fully in NRA LPA 16 pa 1 1 mm the local authority the development control planning process to process and where ensure protection of necessary oppose any the water environment proposals that will damage the water environment.

Participate fully in NRA LPA/DEV- 8 pa the strategic planning ELOPERS process and provide guidance to local councils on methods of protecting the water environment through their development plans.

F3 Ensure that the N RA ’s Positively promote the NRA LPA } Catchment Management concept of catchment OTHERS 1 Plan is adopted as a management planning. strategy for the future management of Monitor and review the NRA the water environment CM P anually. of the Swale, Ure and Ouse catchment.

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 15 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan No. OBJECTIVE ACTIONS RESPONSIBILITY COST(fK) 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 FUTURE LEAD OTHER

E3 Provide and maintain Investigate and record NRA U flood defences. the condition of Flood Defence Assets and prepare a priority based programme for repair, renewal and maintenance. Determine the most cost effective standards for each length and maintain to those standards. In preparing the programme the NRA will consider the implications of ‘doing nothing’ and implementing changes to current methods of operation.

Investigate the NRA LAND U provision of additional OWNERS — relief outfalls to evacuate flood water from washlands as soon as possible after the flood has subsided.

E4 Provide and maintain a Continue to liaise with NRALA 30pa timely, reliable and the police and local POLICE accurate flood warning authorities to ensure service. that procedures are in place to respond to NRA warnings. Continue to refine and improve the flood warning system through incorporation of the Regional Tele metry System and the River Flow Forecasting System.

E5 Manage water levels to Formulate water level NRA MAFF/EN 10 $ balance the requirements management plans for IDB/LA per plan of flood defence, an agreed list of sites. agriculture, and conservation.

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 14 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan ISSUE E: Flood Defence On ‘main river’ the NRA has permissive powers to undertake works when it can be demonstrated that The NRA aims to provide effective defence against these are environmentally and economically acceptable. flooding, appropriate to the use of the land affected This involves provision, maintenance and operation of whether this be urban or agricultural. This role is fulfilled flood defences and undertaking other appropriate land in three main ways; supervision, flood defence operations drainage works. and flood warning. The NRA also provides a flood forecasting and warning In accordance with the Water Resources Act 1991 the NRA service for areas at risk from flooding from ‘main river’. exercises a general supervision over all matters relating to Warnings are issued, in accordance with a national colour flood defence. This is primarily undertaken by liaison with coded system, to the police who implement emergency planning authorities over development in the catchment procedures as appropriate. Responsibility for providing and by powers of enforcement given by the Land Drainage assistance to the public lies with the District Councils. Act 1991 and the Water Rcscources Act 1991.

No. OBJECTIVE ACTIONS RESPONSIBILITY C0ST(£K) 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 FUTURE LEAD OTHER

E 1 I mprove efficiency and Investigate and record NRA 40 effectiveness of the the condition of all NRA’s emergency existing flood defence response. structures within the catchment. Remaining actions for this objective are dependant on this.

Modify, where NRA U economically and practically possible flood defence structures to enable operation remotely utilising the Region’s Telemetry System.

Consider replacing NRA <5 pa structures which cannot be readily adapted for remote operation.

Investigate the NRA <5 pa feasibility of providing C C TV at critical flood defence structures in order to improve safety and security.

E2 Improve NRA maintained Develop plans for NRA <5 assets from a conservation selected sites. and amenity aspect without reducing their operational performance.

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse ]_3 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan National U i\erj$ Authority

No. OBJECTIVE ACTIONS RESPONSIBILITY C0ST(£K) 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 FUTURE LEAD OTHER

D 7 Investigate obstructions Complete an inventory NRA 10 __ $ to fish passage caused of obstructions to the by man-made structures. passage of fish and prioritise works to be carried out to allow free passage.

D8 Assess the impact that Undertake collaborative NRA ORNITH- 1 piscivorous birds have work with ornitho OLOGICAL on fish populations. logical organisations ORGANIS to assess the potential ATIONS impact that goosanders and cormorants might have on the fish populations of the Rivers Swale and Ure.

D9 Improve access and Encourage improvement NRA SPORT- 4.5 facilities for in facilities and ING individuals and the foster a balanced ORGANIS various recreational approach in the ATIONS interests in the development of access AND catchment, who wish to the water environ CLUBS/ to enjoy the water ment. For example LAND environment. support the completion OWNERS of a long distance path between York and Ripon.

Encourage angling clubs NRA ANGLING 2 to set aside stretches CLUBS of match fishing lengths for use by non competing anglers, enabling a fuller use of the facility.

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 12 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan ISSUE D: Ecology, Recreation and Amenity voluntary and community organisations and specialist interest groups and will, where possible, work in The NRA has duties, under the Water Resources Act 1991, co-operation with these bodies in order to achieve to maintain, improve and develop fisheries, to further our objectives. conservation, to promote recreation and to predict or Close liaison will also be maintained with other functions monitor biological impacts. and sections of the NRA in order to ensure a coherent and As part of these duties the Authority will liaise closely with integrated approach. other local and national authorities, with landowners, No. OBJECTIVE ACTIONS RESPONSIBILITY C0ST(£K) 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 FUTURE LEAD OTHER

Dl Promote land manage Continue support for NRA FWAG 5 pa ment practices that FWAG e.g. Bishop N YORKS increase the habitat Monkton Ings on the diversity of the water Ure. environment.

D2 Provide advice to Work with YDNP, NRA YDNP 10 pa landowners on the N Y C C and landowners NYCC problems of bankside to encourage the use erosion and control of habitat creation methods in conjunction to help combat erosion with other agencies. and tipping problems.

D4 Protect native crayfish Maintain records of NRA MAFF/EN 1 pa in the catchment. native crayfish and LA resist proposals to introduce alien species into the catchment.

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 11 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan National RiyerJ Authority

No. OBJECTIVE ACTIONS RESPONSIBILITY COST(£K) 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 FUTURE LEAD OTHER

C2 Achieve water quality Undertake phased NRA INDUSTRY lOpa improvements in the investigations on Swale, Ure and Ouse industrial sites and catchment by effective recommend pollution pollution prevention prevention measures. measures. Use biological and NRA FARMERS lOpa chemical surveys to identify sub-catchments affected by agricult ural pollution. Carry out site visits to the farms responsible and investigate programmes for remedial action.

Continue to promote NRA YWS lOpa measures with YWS to INDUSTRY reduce pollution effects from public and private surface water sewers.

Prioritise the list of NRA YWS problem CSO ’s submitted by YWS under AMP2 and plan the necessary programme of improvements.

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 10 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan ISSUE C: Water Quality Management For each stretch of river, a target RE class will be assigned, including a date by which this level of water quality should The NRA uses two principal schemes for the reporting and be achieved. Until WQOs are formally established by legal management of river water quality: the general quality Notice served by the Secretary of State, and therefore exist assessment (GQA) scheme; and the statutory water quality on a statutory basis, they will be applied on a non-statutory objectives (WQOs) scheme. These schemes have replaced basis through a translation of River Quality Objectives the water quality classification system used previously by (RQOs) from NWC classes to appropriate RE classes and the NRA (the NW C classification). target dates. The GQA scheme is used to make periodic assessments of Additional sampling points have been included in the the quality of river water in order to monitor geographical catchment. The amended sampling programme became and temporal trends. The scheme comprises four effective in mid 1994 enabling a more accurate water components - general chemistry, nutrients, aesthetics and quality classification to be made in the NRA 1995 biology - each providing a discrete ‘window’ upon the quinquennial survey. The NRA aims to continue to achieve quality of river stretches. The general chemistry improvements to the water environment by taking a component of the GQA is in current use, and comprises proactive role in pollution prevention. This involves six tiered grades defined by standards for Dissolved undertaking a programme of site visits to industrial Oxygen, BOD and Total Ammonia. The remaining three premises, farms, sewage pumping stations, combined sewer windows are still under development and will be applied overflows and sewage works to assess risks and giving when available. advice on pollution prevention measures. The intention is The WQO scheme establishes clear quality targets to to persuade and educate operators that good housekeeping provide a commonly-agreed planning framework for programmes which limit effluent production and spillage, regulatory bodies and dischargers alike. The proposed form part of the total management process resulting in W QO scheme is based upon the recognised uses to which a reduced costs and benefits to the water environment. river stretch may be put. These uses include: River The NRA also has a duty to monitor compliance of Ecosystem; Special Ecosystem; Abstraction for Potable consented discharges to assess their quality in relation to Supply; Agricultural/Industrial Abstraction and the conditions set within the consent. Watersports. The standards defining the five tiered River The Authority will adopt a firm and even handed approach Ecosystem (RE) use classes, which address the chemical with all dischargers and where the required improvements quality requirements of different types of aquatic are not being progressed within an acceptable timescale, ecosystems, were introduced by “The Surface Waters prosecution will be considered. (River Ecosystem) (Classification) Regulations 1994”. (Standards for further uses are still under development.)

No. OBJECTIVE ACTIONS RESPONSIBILITY C0ST(£K) 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 FUTURE LEAD OTHER

C l Establish water Carry out the NRA’s NRA $ quality using the G Q A quinquennial water water quality class quality survey. ification scheme and review water quality Review medium & longer NRA targets. term non-statutory water quality objectives.

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 9 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan ISSUE B: Aquifer Protection pollution through the underground seepage of contaminants. Once polluted it is extremely difficult and In general, groundwater has a high standard of quality, costly to alleviate the pollution. Some groundwater also both microbiologically and chemically and therefore moves very slowly which means that it sometimes takes a usually requires little treatment prior to use. Groundwater long time for any pollution to be manifested. is vulnerable to many activities that can cause insidious

No. OBJECTIVE ACTIONS RESPONSIBILITY COST(CK) 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 FUTURE LEAD OTHER

B2 Protect major ground Groundwater protection NRA CONSUL- 15 water abstractions zones will be defined TANTS from contamination. for the major ground water sources that arc used for potable supply.

B3 Develop groundwater Set up a groundwater NRA 14 quality monitoring quality monitoring network. network, as per National guidelines.

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 8 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan ISSUE A: Water Resources Management and those of the abstractors. To aid the management of the water resource, the The National Rivers Authority has a duty to conserve, Authority has published National and Regional Water redistribute, augment and ensure the proper use of Resource Strategies which will be implemented in the water resources. As part of this duty, the NR As role is to catchment. The Authority will continue its routine regulate the water companies, hydropower and other programme of river flow, rainfall and groundwater level abstractors to ensure that in managing the resource a monitoring. balance is achieved between the needs of the environment

No. OBJECTIVE ACTIONS RESPONSIBILITY C0ST(£K) 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 FUTURE LEAD OTHER

Al Ensure the proper Employ consultants to NRA CONSUL- 20 management and undertake a National TANTS part of development of surface review of existing national water resources. policies for the contract determination of surface water abstraction licences.

Implement amended NRA U licensing guidelines.

Negotiate with and NRA YWS 10 monitor the water YWW part of companies progress on regional leakage, conjunctive contract use, source opti misation and demand management to ensure optimum utilisation.

A2 Ensure the proper Review existing NRA 20 management and policy for the part of development of ground determination of regional water resources. groundwater abstraction review licences.

Implement amended NRA U licensing guidelines.

A3 Assess the effects of Utilise existing R & D NRA <1 different flow and information and water resource available data to regimes on the report on the impact of ecology of river low flows in the Swale, communities. Ure and Ouse catchment.

Assess the need for a NRA <1 long term monitoring programme on the ecological effects of low flows.

A4 Determine the Identify the issues NRA U environmental associated with this implications of the potential development Tees/Swale/Wiske proposal. inter-river transfer option.

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 7 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan its subsequent impact on the water environment cannot The issues are presented along with the overall objectives, be overstated. actions needed to achieve the objectives and identification The local planning authorities are responsible for the of responsible parties. General information about each determination of land use changes and promoting forward particular issue can be found directly under the heading. planning policies. As a statutory consultee the NRA Activities have only been included in the Action Plan provides local planning authorities with guidance where we believe there is a significant chance of them statements to assist them in formulating policies for happening and for which resources are likely to be inclusion in their plans which reflect the N RA ’s concerns available. However, the Action Plan is dynamic and will and responsibilities including the statutory requirement to change and evolve on a regular basis as opportunities arise conserve and enhance the water environment and for the public, private and voluntary sectors to work associated lands. Addressing water issues will assist the together to deliver the identified objectives. formulation of settlement strategies, the location, Wherever possible, estimated costs are identified for the attractiveness and sustainability of developments. It will period covered by this plan. A number of actions within also improve the quality of policies for landscape, nature the plan may require feasibility studies and appraisal of and urban conservation, recreation and tourism. Plans options prior to work commencing. In some cases this may sensitive to water matters will be protecting and enhancing mean the solving of issues may not be viable. Certain a vital natural resource and the surrounding environment. projects within this plan will be subject to an internal As a guidance for local authorities, the N RA has prepared a bidding process and may be reprioritised accordingly. set of statements relating to the broad headings of water In the tables, the following abbreviations are used: quality and water resources, flood defence, fisheries, < = Less than. conservation, recreation and navigation in the river pa = Per Annum. corridor and mineral workings and waste disposal. These $ = Activity added as a result of the Consultation. statements are summarised in the N R A ’s “ Guidance Notes - = Expenditure expected in year indicated. for Local Planning Authorities on the Methods of U = Unknown or unavailable costs. Protecting the Water Environment through Development CCTV = Close Circuit Television Plans”. This Catchment Management Plan sets out issues DoT = Department of Transport and actions specific to this catchment which have been EN = English Nature agreed within the framework of these Guidance Notes. FWAG = Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group Continued consistent involvement of the N RA in the IDB = Internal Drainage Board production of local, strategic and national plans is vital to LA = Local Authority the well-being of the water environment. Production of LPA = Local Planning Authority Catchment Management Plans outlining the NRA’s vision MAFF = Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food for sustainable development are seen as important NYCC = North Yorkshire County Council documents to maintain and promote close liaison with all RD C = Ryedale District Council development bodies. RSPS = River Swale Preservation Society STW = Sewage Treatment Works 6. ACTION PLAN UWWTD = Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive YDNP = Yorkshire Dales National Park The proposed Action Plan is based around 11 key issues - YWS = Yorkshire Water Services Ltd labelled A to K - which are detailed in the following tables. YWT = Yorkshire Wildlife Trust Each issue relates to problem areas or opportunities YWW = York Waterworks pic identified in the Consultation Report, either of a strategic N.B. All costs are NRA figures unless otherwise stated. or geographical nature.

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 6 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan and Selby with a combined population of 146,800 (based The Consultation Report classified 1735.5km using the on 1991 Census Data). National Water Council (NWC) scheme. Presently data is The area is crossed by major road and rail links and the only available to classify 654.2km using the GQA scheme tidal river is an important navigational route. (see Issue C for additional clarification). Agreed uses and activities within the catchment include Length of Canal in GQA Class: 1991 - 1993 data. surface water abstraction, groundwater supply and km % protection, effluent disposal, solid waste disposal, land use, Class E 8.4 100 agriculture and forestry, conservation, archaeology and Flood Protection heritage, amenity, recreation and navigation, fisheries, Length of Designated Main River: 311 km angling, mineral extraction and mining, flood defence, Length of raised Flood Defences on Main River (both flood warning and future development. banks): 244 km Number of People and Property Protected from Flooding: Key Details 6600 House Equivalents Administrative Details Water Resources County Councils: Humberside, North Yorkshire. Total number of Licensed Surface Water Abstractions: 460 Total number of Licensed Groundwater Abstractions: 498 District Councils: Booth ferry, Eden, Hambleton, Harrogate, Leeds City, Conservation Richmondshire, Ryedale, Selby, Number of Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty Teesdale, York City. (A O N B ): 2 Water Companies: Northumbrian Water Ltd, N um ber of SSSIs: 55 York Waterworks Pic, Yorkshire Water Services Ltd. 5. RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN LAND USE AND THE National Parks: Yorkshire Dales. WATER ENVIRONMENT

Navigation Authorities: British Waterways - Ripon The broad objective of catchment management planning is Canal, Selby Canal, Ouse to conserve and enhance the total river environment and Ure; through effective land and resource management. However, Linton Lock Commissioners - while the NRA is well placed to influence some of the Linton Lock; York City factors affecting the water environment, particularly in Council - Foss only. relation to the river corridor itself, it has very little control Water Quality over the mechanisms which determine land use change on a Length of Classified River in General Quality Assessment catchment-wide basis. This is largely the responsibility of (GQA) Class : 1991 - 1993 data. local planning authorities through the implementation of km % of classified watercourse the Town and Country Planning Acts. C lass A 129.4 19.8 The policies in statutory development plans are important Class B 357.6 54.6 in this regard in that they set out the framework for land C lass C 79.6 12.2 use change, and provide the key reference in determining development applications; the NRA encourages the Class D 22.0 3.4 inclusion of policies which reflect its concerns and Class E 62.6 9.5 responsibilities. Class F 3.0 0.5 The crucial role of planning authorities in determining Total 654.2 100.0 development of the urban and rural environment and

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 5 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan Council for the Protection of Rural England 4. OVERVIEW OF THE CATCHMENT English Heritage The River Swale originates as a series of small becks on the English Nature Northern Pennines within the Yorkshire Dales National Forest Enterprise Park. At Grinton it is joined by Arkle Beck and flows Forestry Authority eastwards along Swaledale passing through Richmond and Foss Action Group Catterick. The river then turns southeastward and flows J.G. Hills FRICS parallel to the Al until its confluence with the River Ure Hambleton District Council approximately 2 miles east of Boroughbridge. The Swale is Harrogate Borough Council joined by many tributaries between Catterick and the River Hawes & High Abbotside Fishing Ass. Ure, the major ones being Bedale Beck, the River Wiske Hazelwoods Preserves and Cod Beck. HMIP The River Ure also rises on the Pennines within the National Park and is formed by the combination of several Leeds City Council small becks in and around the town of Hawes. Along its Lightwater Quarries Ltd length it is joined by several major tributaries, namely the Lower Ouse IDB River Bain, Bishopdale Beck, River Cover, River Burn, MAFF River Skell and the River Tutt. Unlike other rivers of the Marston Moor IDB area, the Dale through which the Ure flows is named after a National Farmers Union local village rather than the river, hence the somewhat National Power anomalous fact that the River Ure flows through North Yorkshire County Council Wensleydale. Both rivers flow through the beautiful Dales Office of Water Trading (OFWAT) landscape of limestone escarpments, flower rich meadows RAF Leeming and ancient woodland reflecting the history of land Ramblers Association management over the centuries. This landscape has particular value for nature conservation reflected in the Richmondshire District Council number of national and local conservation designations, as Ripon Motor Boat Club well as for its amenity, heritage and archaeological interest. Salmon and Trout Association After its confluence with the Swale, the Ure flows south Selby District Council east to eventually become known as the River Ouse from Selby IDB the point where Ousegill Beck enters to the west of Terrys Suchard Linton-on-Ouse. From this point the River Ouse flows Tidy Britain Group south through the agriculturally productive Vale of York Unitrition International Ltd and the City itself to Naburn Weir below which the river York City Council is tidal. York Waterworks Pic Tributaries of the Ouse include the Rivers Kyle and Foss, Yorkshire Dales National Park together with the Nidd and Wharfe, Derwent and Aire Yorkshire Electricity Group Pic which are the subject of separate catchment plans. Yorkshire Water Services Ltd The drainage area of the largely rural Swale, Ure and Ouse Yorkshire Wildlife Trust catchment is 3286 knr to the confluence with the River Aire. Several centres of population exist within the catchment including Richmond, Northallerton, Thirsk, Ripon, York

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 4 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan 2. INTRODUCTION 3. REVIEW OF THE CONSULTATION PROCESS

The National Rivers Authority (NRA) was established in The Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse Catchment Management 1989 to safeguard and improve the water environment in Plan Consultation Report was launched on 24 May 1994 at England and Wales. Our Mission Statement expresses the which time it was distributed to local authorities, industry, following principles: We will protect and improve the landowners, environmental groups, sport and recreation water environment by the effective management of water groups and the public. resources and by substantial reductions in pollution. We The Consultation Report concentrated on the issues in the will aim to provide effective defence for people and catchment and possible management options for their property against flooding from rivers and the sea. In solution. During the three month consultation period that discharging our duties we will operate openly and balance followed it was hoped that parties would confirm the range the interests of all who benefit from and use rivers, and extent of catchment uses and activities; express views groundwaters, estuaries and coastal waters. We will be on the issues facing the water environment; suggest how businesslike, efficient and caring to our employees. the strategies and action plans should be progressed and To achieve these objectives the NRA uses its resources to: identify actions of other bodies for inclusion in the • Maintain existing assets and invest in new assets to Catchment Management Plan. provide flood protection, manage water resources and During the consultation period an informal open evening provide other NRA services. was held at the Kings Head Hotel, Richmond to discuss the • Control pollution by working with dischargers to report and a series of ad-hoc meetings held with various achieve improvements and ensuring emergency response interest groups to discuss issues arising. is efficient and effective. Five hundred Consultation Reports and a large number of • Determine, police, enforce and where applicable, review supporting documents were distributed during the the conditions in water abstraction licences, discharge consultation period. This process resulted in 50 written consents and land drainage consents to Lialance differing responses being received, the comments from which have and sometimes conflicting needs whilst protecting the been considered and where possible, incorporated into water environment. this Plan. • Develop fisheries and promote recreation, conservation The Plan is a strategic policy framework for the and navigation where appropriate. management of the catchment and will form the basis for • Influence planning authorities to control development improvements to the water environment by outlining areas through Town and Country planning legislation. of work and investment proposed by the NRA and others. Catchment Management Planning is a process designed to This document primarily covers a five year period from create a consistent framework within which the diverse January 1995 to December 1999 although certain projects responsibilities of the NRA can be applied within a may take longer due to funding availability and government policy. catchment in a co-ordinated manner. It is a procedure by which issues and opportunities within a catchment are Comments on the Consultation Report were received from assessed and actions proposed to optimise the future well 7 individuals and the following organisations: being of the water environment. The purpose, therefore of Bedale and Upper Swale IDB this Catchment Management Plan, is to define a strategy British Sugar for realising the environmental potential of the Rivers British Waterways Swale, Ure and Ouse within the prevailing economic and Claro IDB political constraints for a five year period. Country Landowners Association Countryside Commission

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 3 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan 1. VISION FOR THE CATCHMENT The catchment is held to be of great landscape, conservation and amenity value. The significant The Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse drain a catchment area of conservation value of the catchment is recognised in both over 3200km*. The rivers flow from the protected, national and local designations. The NRA acknowledges designated uplands of the Yorkshire Dales National Park the conservation implications of its duties, and would through the City of York to the port of Selby. This encourage management practices, both internally and by diversity in landscape and heritage attracts many visitors to external organisations, that increase the habitat diversity the catchment each year, whether this be for recreational and conservation value of the river corridor. This is activities in the National Park or simply to enjoy the particularly true where enhancements would enable pleasures of the City of York. opportunities for indigenous species, such as otter and The majority of the catchment is of a rural nature with the crayfish, to re-establish viable populations. O f considerable population being concentrated in the towns and the City of interest in a catchment of such beauty is the need for access York at the lower end of the catchment. and recreational facilities for the local and wider Given such contrasts there are numerous opportunities for community. The NRA will encourage responsible the NRA to work together with the wider community for recreational activities on the river. The future development the benefit of the water environment. The challenge of of recreation will only be successful through careful managing the waters of the catchment is in effectively management, co-operation and moderation by all who have responding to the range of pressures on the area and an interest in this resource. reconciling all the uses demanded, whether it be for water The NRA will work to provide and maintain defences supply, industrial supply, effluent disposal, fisheries, throughout the catchment in order to alleviate the risk of conservation, recreation or protection from flooding. flooding from ‘main river’, to the highest level of defence Within the Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse catchment, water that is both cost effective and environmentally acceptable. resources, water quality, flood defence and land The NRA will work towards providing a comprehensive management issues are considered to be particularly flood forecasting and warning service targeted at specific important. areas at risk. Whenever advance forecasts allow, warnings The catchment represents a large source of drinking water would be issued at least two hours prior to the onset of within Yorkshire. Because of this, the achievement of high flooding. The Authority will protect, and enhance water quality standards through effective and proactive wherever practicable habitats, flora, fauna, fisheries, pollution control are necessary to ensure the continuance architectural and recreation interests in addition to flood of these uses. Generally water quality is good although defence interests when determining applications for localised problems do occur due to the discharge of sewage, consent to undertake works in watercourses or to develop industrial and farm effluent. The NRA will continue to in the flood plain. work with Yorkshire Water Services Ltd., industrialists and Finally, the NRA wishes to establish strong involvement landowners to ensure that through effective regulation all and links with local authorities, water companies, internal water quality objectives are met in the future. Abstraction drainage boards, industry, landowners, farmers, of surface water for public supply is a major feature in the environmental organisations and the general public to lower part of the catchment, notably from the River Ouse. ensure local views are respected when future development The Authority recognises this vital use and will work to decisions are made for the catchment. We will therefore ensure optimum utilisation of this finite resource whilst work with all relevant parties to implement the principles protecting all other aspects of the water environment. of sustainable development. Groundwater quality and quantity will be monitored and protected following the guidelines in the “Policy and Practice for the Protection of Groundwater”.

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse 2 January 1995 Catchment Management Plan National jRiversJAuthority

CONTENTS

PAGE N O

C O N T E N T S 1

1. VISION FOR THE CATCHMENT 2

2. IN T R O D U C T IO N 3

3. REVIEW OF THE CONSULTATION PROCESS 3

4. OVERVIEW OF THE CATCHMENT 4

5. RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN LAND USE AND 5 THE WATER ENVIRONMENT

6. A C T IO N P L A N 6 Issues: A. Water Resources Management 7 B. Aquifer Protection 8 C. Water Quality Management 9 D. Ecology, Recreation and Amenity 11 E Flood Defence 13 F. Future Developm ent 15 G. River Swale 16 H. River Ure 18 I. Non-Tidal River Ouse 20 J. River Foss and Tributaries 22 K. Tidal O use 24

7. FUTURE REVIEW AND MONITORING 26

8. GLOSSARY OF TERMS 27

9. NRA EMERGENCY HOTLINE 28

ENVIRONMENT AGENCY

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse January 1995 Catchment Management Plan 0 5 1 2 4 5 National Authority

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse Catchment

Eden D.C

pK M \ / N

\ Hanihleton D.C

Richmondshire D.C / ' ^ Ryedale D.C

York C.C I x •js

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KEY Leeds C.C s e l b V: — ______Catchment Boundary

Watercourses r\j® Tidal Limit ------Road Network

Local Authority Boundaries E n v ir o n m e n t Ag e n c y

NATIONAL LIBRARY & INFORMATION SERVICE

NORTH EAST REGION

Tyneside House. Skinnerburn Road, Newcastle Business Park. Newcastle-Upon-Tyne NE4 7AR

Rivers Swale, Ure and Ouse January 1995 Catchment Management Plan