Our local rivers need protection from pollution.
About Clean River Kent Campaign
The Clean River Kent Campaign (CRKC) is a coalition of communities living along the length of the river Kent in Cumbria from Kentmere to Staveley, Burneside, Kendal, Sedgwick, Levens and down to the sea at Arnside.
Our Action Plan
Our aim is to make the river Kent clean for all types of water-based recreation and to protect the ecology and wildlife in the river by working with local communities.
In 2025, CRKC will focus on political advocacy, community engagement and citizen science.
Our Campaigns
CRKC has been at the forefront of several vital campaigns to protect and improve the health of the river Kent, including a submission for bathing water designation, and a long-awaited programme to upgrade the pipe network and treatment works in Staveley.
These campaigns have been supported by a comprehensive citizen science programme. We continue to challenge United Utilities to improve wastewater management and press the other agencies responsible for water quality, such as the Environment Agency and Ofwat, for stronger regulation.
We work closely with a wide range of partners including Surfers Against Sewage, Ilkley Clean River Group, Ambleside Action for the Future and the Westmorland Angling Association.
We are also engaging with national debates over the future of the water sector in England and have stated our support for public ownership of the water industry.
Since 2021, CRKC has undertaken a wide range of citizen science work to understand the health of the river Kent. This work helps to inform and support our campaign to protect it.
Our Citizen Science
CRKC has organised a wide range of activities to protect and promote the River Kent, including river clean-ups, community events, and educational talks. We've supported local campaign groups, hosted guest speakers from across the UK, and arranged regular steering group meetings. Through our platforms and outreach, we continue to raise awareness and inspire local action for the river’s future.
Our Local Engagement
Reporting an Incident
If you suspect that there’s been a sewage discharge into the River Kent and notice a strange smell or odd-looking stretch of water or any other signs of pollution, please immediately report this.
News & Updates
News & Updates
