Algae forces park lake to close for a second time

An Ashford lake has been shut for the second time this summer after algae developed there again.

Ashford council experts have temporarily closed Conningbrook main lake in Kennington after taking expert advice.

The country park the lake is located in remains open and sports clubs which use the lake have been notified.

Members of the public are being advised not to go in the water and to keep dogs on leads.

The closure comes two months after a previous lake shutdown following a similar problem of algae developed.

In May, three dogs died in Dartford after blue-green algae affected Brooklands Lake in Dartford.

Now, users walking around Conningbrook lake are being advised not to go in or take part in any activity on the lake; noy to let children go in the water; and to keep dogs on a lead and not let them go in the water.

Further tests are being carried out by the Environment Agency to monitor the algal bloom found last week, but it has been con- firmed as being blue-green algae, similar to that encountered in June. Algae blooms are a naturally occurring phenomenon that can be triggered by a range of factors.

Though they will clear up naturally, the Environment Agency it is best for humans to avoid contact with the water, as it can cause a skin rash, and it should not be swallowed, though large quantities of it must be taken in before a person would feel unwell.

However, it is harmful to animals, so they must not, under any circumstances, be allowed to enter the water.

The Environment Agency will test the water regularly and the council will continue to communicate with sports clubs over the use of the lake.

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Ashford Conningbrook lake has been closed again due to blue-green algae problems