A picturesque Canvey lake could soon receive a much-needed facelift, it was revealed today.

Councillors have approved plans to dredge up the excess silt at the eastern end of Canvey Lake, at the back of the Oysterfleet Hotel in Knightswick Road, in an effort to perk it up and stop the popular attraction turning into a massive bed of reeds.

Important to have survey - Jenifer Howlett Picture: TERENCE BUNCH

However, the proposal will only go ahead after an ecological survey takes place and the voles who live in the area fully recover from spring fever.

As the creatures do not breed between April and October, it is expected the work could begin after March - it is important they are not be disturbed before then.

Councillor Jenifer Howlett (Lab, St Peter's) said: "I do think an ecological survey is of the utmost importance. Residents have been saying that this is a bit of a waste of money for the council, and that they can think of better ways of spending it, but I understand it is going to be funded by donation."

She was assured that the Oysterfleet Hotel had pledged to stump up the cash.

Oysterfleet Hotel boss Chris Fenwick is away on business in Spain and was not available for comment.

Published Friday, January 17, 2003

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