Lexden Lake to get clean up after fished died

The surface of Lexden Lake, located off Church Lane, Colchester, became covered in the duckweed in 2020.

The weed emitted a “foul odour” and the lake’s fish died, causing residents to demand action to be taken.

Now, Colchester Council has pledged £30,000 to help remedy issues with the historic lake to protect its future.

Lexden councillor Martin Leatherdale said he welcomed the move and looks forward to an “eco-renovation” at the site. 

He said: “Unlike many of the lakes and large ponds in the borough, Lexden Lake is set in an urban residential context, with dwellings immediately surrounding the northern half of the lake.

“Over the past two years, the ecology of the lake has been seriously out of balance.

“This led to deterioration of its condition, including odours during the warm weather that were unpleasant and wholly unacceptable to residents.”

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Mr Leatherdale explained plans are now in the pipeline to install a floating aerator unit at the site which will be the key to its transformation.

He added: “Colchester Council adopted a five point recovery strategy in which the most expensive item is the provision of a floating aerator unit to oxygenate the water.

Pleased - Martin Leatherdale

“Some advance work on the floating aerator project was scheduled for spring, but unfortunately the contractor appointed to start work on the power supply went into liquidation.

“Another contractor has been appointed and we hope to have the aerator unit installed and operational by summer.

“It is important residents and visitors to the adjacent Lexden park and playing field appreciate the aerator is not a decorative fountain provided to enhance the visual landscape.

“It is rather an important component in restoring the long-term eco-balance of Lexden Lake.”

It follows plans thrown out by Colchester Council when councillors proposed an amendment to its 2021/22 budget to include works at the lake.

The proposal called for the council to allocate £93,000 to facilitate work, however this was rejected.