NEWSHAM Park Lake has been closed due to a sudden bloom of potentially toxic algae. Anglers and the public have been advised to stay away from the lake and keep dogs out until further notice.
Algae occur naturally in lakes but under certain conditions can multiply rapidly to create a bloom. The blue-green algae blooms discolour the water and, as the algae floats, reduce the amount of light reaching the water below.
This can affect the fish and other life in the lake. When the bloom dies off the natural breakdown of the algae reduces the amount of oxygen in the water, which can adversely affect fish and other aquatic life. Blue-green algae can naturally produce toxins, which can be released when the algae die.
Newsham Park lake is now closed in order to minimise any risk of contact with the toxins and to reduce the potential stress on fish and other aquatic life. Anglers and other members of the public should not use the lake and dogs should be kept out of the water.
The Environment Agency is continuing to provide information about the algae bloom, sample the water and will monitor the situation.
