Algae blamed for fish kill at Balancing Lakes

The toxic but naturally occurring blue-green algae has been spotted at Craigavon Lakes in recent days, following an unseasonably warm and dry spring.

Local man Martin Wells said: “The smell of all the dead fish there is digusting.

“There are a number of water courses feeding into the Craigavon Park Lakes and, because of the dry weather, the water level in the lakes has dipped and that’s meant this blue algae has grown.”

Mr Wells believes the council, which manages the lake site, should take action beyond chemical treatment to address the problem.

Last week, a spokesperson for Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Council said: “As a result of the recent good weather, there has been an increase in the natural occurring blue green algae at Craigavon Lakes.”

The council spokesperson said the water was being treated by staff at the Water Sports Centre and dog owners were warned to keep their pets clear of the water..

The spokesperson added: “Staff will continue to monitor the situation on a daily basis and temporary signs are being erected this afternoon advising visitors to avoid contact with the water and not to allow their dogs to swim in or drink the water.”