The results of a fish survey at Kelsey Park are being analysed as part of the preparation work needed prior to the lake being desilted later this year.
A carefully selected sample of the fish were taken from the main lake and returned shortly by the survey team, Five Rivers, with this work needed to help inform the methodology used for desilting the much loved lakes at Kelsey Park in Beckenham.
Councillor Thomas Turrell, Executive Assistant for Environment said, “This is another crucial and welcome milestone in the preparation work, which is needed ahead of the desilting work, which we envisage taking place mostly probably in the later half of this year. The outcome of the survey will help ensure that the fish are looked after whilst the desilting work is taking place as well as confirming the extent that the Kelsey Park lakes support nature and improves biodiversity within the park. I also want to thank the Friends of Kelsey Park not just for their support but their continued care of this magnificent park”.
A Five Rivers spokesperson said, “We surveyed the site with a variety of methods to maximise catch output, tailoring the methods to each lake. The survey yielded a sufficient sample of caught fish eligible for health checks. The fish examined were confirmed to be healthy.”
The results of the survey, which are expected shortly, will include a list of fish species, ecological status and other factors which may need to be considered as part of the desilting work, as well as the approximate age and health condition of the fish.
The news follows confirmation that the Kelsey Park lakes will be desilted later this year, subject to the outcome of a successful tender, with the work part of a £2.5million improvement programme at Kelsey Park, which also includes the reconstruction of the footbridge.
Work is also now underway to create a £20k community garden in the disused yard within the park, with thanks to the Friends of Kelsey Park, who successfully applied to council’s Platinum Jubilee Parks Fund in support of this project.
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