FISH are dying in Kenilworth’s Abbey Fields Lake as the drought lowers water levels.
Following on site investigations officers from Warwick District Council (WDC) concluded it would not be possible to aerate the water using the traditional methods of a water pump as the water levels were too low and the significant amount of silt – up to 18 inches – in the water.
WDC was also advised relocating fish would be too difficult to carry out due to the lake’s current low level, and the unlikelihood of the fish surviving the journey in the extreme temperatures.
The only remaining action course of action was to add water to the lake from the mains as a temporary measure, which WDC had arranged and installed and was working until yesterday (Thursday).
But now due to the impact on the regional network WDC has been instructed by Severn Trent this must now cease.
A WDC spokesperson said: “Throughout this time the council has been in close communication with our partners at the Environment Agency, Severn Trent and Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service, local angling club, have explored every option available to us to try and save the fish. “However due to the continued hot, dry weather there will inevitably sadly be more casualties.
“WDC understands how distressing this situation is for members of the public. It has been a very sad few days for council officers and contractors who have been dealing with this incident.
The Environment Agency is currently working at 150 sites across England who are experiencing similar conditions.
