‘Toxic’ lake is closed

A popular lake used for water sports in Ashford has been closed off yet again due to the discovery of toxic algae.

Ashford Leisure Trust (ALT) took to social media last Friday to say that the main lake at Conningbrook Lakes will be closed until further notice because toxic blue-green algae has been found growing in the water.

The algae, known as anabaena, has the potential to kill animals and trigger skin rashes in humans. It should not be ingested, though large quantities would have to be swallowed to make someone feel unwell.

The lakes were closed off for the same reason for a period last summer.

They reopened in July when the naturally occurring phenomenon disappeared quicker than expected.

Fol l o wing Environment Agency advice, ALT made the decision to temporarily close the main lake at the country park last week, but the rest of the park remains open.

Ashford Borough Council (ABC) advises the public not to go in or take part in any activity on the lake, not let children go in the water, keep dogs on leads and not let them enter the water.

Earlier this year, ABC’s cabinet agreed proposals to improve the water quality, including applying blue dye to control the growth of invasive aquatic weeds.

The council has applied a chalk dressing to the lake bed to help reduce the development of bluegreen algae and is in the process of introducing new aquatic plants. It also aims to install a new aeration system to help curb algae later this year.

The water will continue to be tested and sports clubs will be advised as soon as the lake is safe to use again.

Residents and users are advised to adhere to the signs erected on site and look for further information on ALT’s and the borough council’s website and on social media.

Len Mayatt, ABC’s cultural projects manager for leisure said: “It is disappointing that the lake has had to close but we agree that Ashford Leisure Trust have taken the correct decision, acting on the expert advice given to them by the Environment Agency.

“It will clear over time but we must wait for that to happen naturally.

“In the meantime it is very important that the public follow the advice we are giving out about safety near the water.

“That way everyone can still enjoy the country park itself, until such time as the lake is able to reopen.”

‘It will clear over time but we must wait for that to happen naturally.’

Picture: Paul Amos FM4383391 The lake at Conningbrook, closed due to blue-green algae problems