Council says anglers are not being ignored

They added: “A survey of the lake took place in 2013 and a number of recommendations were made to address issues at Lurgan Park Lake. Multi agency meetings in 2014 and more recently in March 2015 were attended by representatives from the Northern Ireland Environment Agency, the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure and Council to look at these issues, some of which have been actioned.

“A schedule for weed cutting at the lake has been put in place in line with similar weed cutting at Craigavon Lakes. Fish have been re-stocked in the lake with the last replenishment taking place in March 2014. A large established population of cormorants in the area are greatly affecting stock levels of fish and, although there is no easy way to control cormorant numbers, a variety of options are currently being explored to help reduce the predation on the fish.

“Potential methods of dealing with algal bloom were also discussed at the meeting and, although no single method has proven to be completely effective, investigations are continuing with the agencies into a solution.

“Sampling carried out during the lake survey found high levels of ammonia in the lake. It was recommended that NIEA Water Management Service be consulted to effect an improvement in the water quality of the culverted stream. They are investigating the stream in order to try to identify any cross connections and are referring their findings via the Water Utility Regulations Group to NI Water. Research and supporting documentation has been gathered and funding has been applied for the improvement of the stream: these improvements will be primarily aesthetic with some conservation work to be included.

“Given the issues with the lake, a considerable amount of work has been done to date, progress is ongoing, and a similar competition like the one to be held at Craigavon Lakes later this month is a great aspiration for the future.”