A significant clean-up mission is currently underway at Stover Country Park

Focusing on the ten-acre Stover Lake, which is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. The lake has been found in poor condition due to accumulated sediment and deteriorating water quality.

A significant clean-up mission is currently underway at Stover Country Park, focusing on the ten-acre Stover Lake, which is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. The lake has been found in poor condition due to accumulated sediment and deteriorating water quality. The de-silting project is being executed by Murlac, with Fishtek Consulting overseeing the process after managing the design, consent, and discharge of planning conditions.

Dr. Peter Brunner, the Project Manager from Fishtek Consulting, explained the pressing need for this intervention. "The poor water quality and accumulated sediment were severely impacting Stover Lake. We lost waterlilies, other aquatic plants, and numerous invertebrate species. By removing the excess sediment and phosphorous and increasing the lake's depth, we aim to enable the natural regeneration of aquatic vegetation and see significant improvements in habitat and water quality."

The project involves the removal of approximately 14,000 cubic meters of sediment, which equates to about 17,000 tonnes. This sediment will be dried and reused within Stover Country Park on a designated 1.4-hectare site. This area, nearly the size of two football pitches, is planned to be transformed into a broadleaved woodland featuring some conifer and native shrub species. This initiative is expected to significantly enhance the ecological diversity of Stover Country Park.

The restoration project not only aims to improve the immediate environmental conditions of Stover Lake but also seeks to foster long-term ecological benefits for the entire park. The new woodland area will serve as a habitat for various species, promoting biodiversity and supporting the park's ecosystem. This effort reflects a broader commitment to environmental conservation and the sustainable management of natural resources within the community.