The Isle of Wight Council has confirmed that 1,000 litres of water will be added to Big Mead Pond in Shanklin each day amid ongoing concerns about low water levels and the health of fish and wildlife.
The announcement comes following a public row over the condition of the pond, which has seen Shanklin’s Deputy Mayor, Adrian Whittaker, resign from his position, citing a crisis at the site and a rift with the Mayor.
In a statement, the local authority has said that although water levels are lower than usual due to prolonged dry weather, recent inspections have confirmed that the fish remain healthy and the situation is not currently critical.
To help support the pond’s ecosystem during the continued dry spell, the Council will now begin adding 1,000 litres of water each day until there is enough rainfall to reactivate the natural spring that usually feeds the pond.
The Council has also stressed that any water added must be carefully diluted to ensure no harmful chemicals enter the ecosystem, which could pose a risk to fish or other wildlife.
A spokesperson has said the pond will continue to be actively monitored and reassured residents of its ongoing commitment to maintaining the health of the site.
1000 litres per day, that’s 1 cubic metre, or 1 plastic IBC (Intermediate Bulk Container), this will take many weeks to make any significant increase in the water level, pathetic!!
Why not just relocate any fish, and let nature do the rest? Return the fish once it’s been refilled naturally.
1000 litres is a drop in the ocean to use the expression, there will be no visible change in the level at all, just fill it up.
“The Council has also stressed that any water added must be carefully diluted to ensure no harmful chemicals enter the ecosystem, which could pose a risk to fish or other wildlife.” …
But its ok for us to drink the stuff ????
By the same logic, many dogs eat faeces, do you want sugar on yours?
Is it from a hose pipe????
‘The Council has also stressed that any water added must be carefully diluted to ensure no harmful chemicals enter the ecosystem ‘……..
Wait, what? We have harmful chemicals in our water? And diluted with…what exactly?
It’s the chlorine from a non natural water supply they need to remove/dilute
The main priority should be the welfare of the fish and other wildlife that regularly use the pond.