Local Group Aims to Revitalize New Brighton Marine Lake

A local community organization seeks to restore a 90-year-old lake, which has accumulated significant quantities of dumped litter, to its “former glory”. This marine lake in New Brighton, owned by Wirral Council, is frequently used by early morning swimmers. The Friends of New Brighton Marine Lake, a group known for organizing litter collection events—one of which removed a tonne (1,000kg) of metal from the water—has received authorization from the local authority to apply for funding. According to member Clare Mahoney, the group was established due to previous occurrences of blue-green algae in the lake and worries regarding its deteriorating state. “We went from feeling a sense of hopelessness about the lake and how it was always going to be a bit smelly, a bit stinky, a bit full of rubbish, to thinking – why couldn’t we have a place in New Brighton that is full of clear water where people come from miles around to celebrate and enjoy?” Fellow member Colin Clayton expressed the desire for the lake to “return to its former glory,” describing it as “the jewel in the crown of New Brighton.” The organization has removed deceased animals, such as foxes and birds, from the lake and has cleared blocked drains, facilitating an increased flow of seawater into the body of water. Additionally, they intend to introduce mussels and oysters for natural water filtration, alongside aerators to enhance water quality, with the aim of preventing any recurrence of toxic blue-green algae. During a film presented to councillors, resident Peter Flowerdew, who has dedicated 22 years to cleaning the lake, stated its potential to evolve into a “wildlife sanctuary.” The council indicated its support for consistent water testing and the installation of signage around the lake. Councillors reached a unanimous decision to proceed with an agreement designed to assist the group in applying for more substantial funding opportunities.