Gresford Lake is much loved, visited and photographed part of the village and local area. However, its future is under threat and Gresford Community Council, together with Friends of Gresford Lake, are determined to do all they can to protect it.
Andrew Ranger MP wanted to gain an understanding of the issues affecting Gresford Lake first-hand and joined volunteers on Friday to see for himself the very worrying build-up of silt.
The silt build-up is caused by a mixture of run-off from the road, fish waste and animal waste. For example, the Canada geese that populate the lake produce 3kg of waste per goose per year and the introduction of non-native carp to the lake has exacerbated the situation. In addition, the drainage from surrounding roads currently empties directly into the lake and contains sand, tyre rubber, tar and diesel amongst other undesirable components.
Following a grant from the Landfill Disposals Tax Communities Scheme (LDTCS) in 2023 the Friends and Gresford Community Councillors – all volunteers – have started to restore biodiversity to Gresford Lake, raising awareness of environmental concerns by encouraging residents and community groups to work together to remove invasive species by introducing native flora and fauna to establish resilient habitats that will strengthen the existing nature recovery corridor. Plants have been embedded around the lake, and are thriving, the group has secured the re-homing of a large number of carp, and local environmental firm AWE has stepped in with greatly valued expert advice and practical help. However, further funds, help and support are needed to keep moving forward to restore and develop the lake.
Andrew Ranger MP said, “I have been supporting Friends of Gresford Lake since last year, making representations to Natural Resources Wales, Wrexham County Borough Council and BioNet. My office has also researched potential funding streams as well working alongside Lesley Griffiths MS’ office in communicating with Wrexham County Borough Council. I will continue to work with Gresford Community Council and the volunteer team, as well as other relevant stakeholders, to safeguard the Gresford Lake’s future.”
Volunteer Andrew Price added, “The group need specialist help and advice on the best way to remove the silt from the lake without resorting to dredging, which could destroy the lake’s biome. We have looked into pumping out the silt and we are aware that the cost of doing this is prohibitive and will require a grant to allow this to happen. Currently, biological inoculants, which are harmless to flora and fauna, are being introduced to the lake which will help to break down the algae and the organic element of the silt. An aeration system has been bought utilising funds from the grant that we had and as soon as water levels return to normal this will be up-and-running. The long-term plan is to introduce filter beds and wetland beds where incoming water can be intercepted and fed through reeds and plants to remove a lot of the toxic waste before it reaches the body of the lake.”
