Yorkshire Water has welcomed new legislation banning plastic in wet wipes from next year.
The government has confirmed that from May 2027, wet wipes containing plastic will no longer be sold in the UK as part of efforts to protect the environment and reduce sewer blockages.
Yorkshire Water says wet wipes are one of the main causes of problems in the wastewater network because they do not break down in the same way as toilet paper.
A spokesperson said:
“Wet wipes don’t break down like toilet paper. Even if they are labelled ‘flushable’, many contain microplastics, so they stick together and get snagged in the sewers.”
According to research from UK Water Industry Research, wet wipes are linked to nearly half of all sewer blockages, with wastewater teams often spending hours clearing pipes and drains.
Despite the upcoming ban, Yorkshire Water is continuing to urge people not to flush wet wipes and instead dispose of them in household bins.
The company’s message to customers remains: “Bin it, don’t block it.”
Councillors' addresses to be removed from council website to prevent harassment
Flamingo Land stabbing suspect jailed for four and a half years
Woolly Sheep Inn win at Pub and Bar awards
Woolly Sheep Trail set to start in Skipton over the summer
Skipton Gala announce cancellation of fireworks due to rising costs
Former Lioness travels through Silsden and Addingham as part of Comic Relief challenge
Firm, fair and friendly policing for 'odd' World Cup
Skipton MP meets with North Yorkshire Police Over Dales Traffic and Anti-Social Behaviour Concerns
Family pay tribute to 'kind and caring' teen who died near Burnsall
Trees could get greater protection under new council policy
Skipton MP speaks in Parliament on water safety following death of 13 year old girl
Councillors to discuss new plan to strengthen action on anti-social behaviour
Housing target could be the "death of villages" in North Yorkshire, councillor warns
Children's charity announce new appointment of Patron
Thousands of new homes planned as North Yorkshire maps out its future
Badly parked cars which block narrow roads should be towed, says councillor
Skipton businesses nominated for upcoming Yorkshire Choice Awards
Local Choir Concert to raise money for Craven charities
Police name teenage girl who died after being pulled from River Wharfe
