Reeds and weeds will be removed from localised areas of Radipole Lake to help the flow of water, which may make allocated fishing areas fishable for members of the Radipole Lake Angling (RLAS). The removal will be carried out by the RSPB.
Radipole Lake is the destination of the main River Wey before it meets the sea through the tidal defences at Westham Bridge. The river starts in Upwey and flows through farmland and villages for its seven and a half miles.
There have been issues with low water levels and the build-up of silt and algal blooms in the lake. This is partly caused by agricultural practices and the slowing of the river within the lake.
The lake is overseen by Dorset Council and the RSPB via a collaboration of agencies that have input for different parts of the system. There is a current review of the condition of the Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) by Natural England that will take up to two years to complete. The RSPB was successful in securing a Countryside Stewardship bid, which will look at habitat restoration. The Environment Agency is also carrying out a small study into farming practices that could be investigated to prevent silt and too many nutrients from ending up in the main river.
The tidal defences at Westham Bridge are being considered by Dorset Council to look at whether they can be further modified to help manage water levels in the lake. Work completed to date includes installation of telemetered water level gauges to better understand variation in levels within the lake and the marina. These, together with a rainfall gauge installed in the catchment, have produced better water level control and improved understanding of the relationship with rainfall. Â
Cllr Matt Bell, Radipole ward councillor for Dorset Council said:
“We have established a Radipole Lake Water Level Management Plan working group that draws together all the agencies to talk about how to manage the issues the lake and reserve have.
“I’m hopeful that we can all work together for the benefit of our residents and wildlife.
The reed and weed removal is due to start next week (20 October). And in the following week (w/c 27) there will be reed cutting below the water surface along the length of the channel (as well as across other areas of Radipole).
