As previously reported by The Press, local model boat enthusiast Eric Coates said the state of the lake at Rowntree Park was “a disgrace” – and blamed flood water, debris and waste from wildlife.
At the time, in June, City of York Council said the lake is “not currently in the condition we want it to be”.
The park has since confirmed that efforts to clean the lake have started.
The Friends of Rowntree Park told The Press: “We had an in-depth meeting back in June in the park to discuss the lake as flood debris, goose poo, pond weed, weather and other factors had meant that the lake needed some action.
The state of Rowntree Park lake in June (Image: Harry Booth)
“We are really pleased that the council are helping clear the lake and we will continue to work with them to monitor the situation.
“Despite how the lake may have looked, there is a range of life in there and a valuable part of the ecological system of the park, as well as being part of the flood defence system.
“The work taking place may look unsightly for a while as piles removed from the lake will be on the grass – but this gives any ‘critters’ removed the chance to return to their habitat.”
The council confirmed that diggers have been brought in to help empty the waste and debris from the lake.
James Gilchrist, director of environment, transport and planning at City of York Council, added: “Visitors to Rowntree Park earlier this week may have noticed that our teams have been using a digger to scoop silt, mud and debris out of the lake, and that a number of areas around the lake has been fenced off.
“Earlier this year, the flooding which affected the park over a three-month period has contributed to a build-up of debris in the lake.
“The work we’re doing this week aims to improve the lake’s condition by removing the debris before leaving it temporarily on the lakeside to dry out, allowing any wildlife to find their way back to the lake.
“We’ll then take the debris away for disposal offsite. The work is on track to be complete by Thursday evening (August 22).
“Alongside the Friends of Rowntree Park, we’ll continue to monitor the condition of the lake over the next few months.
“I’d like to thank York’s residents and visitors for their patience while we carry out this work to get this much-loved local landmark looking fresher once again.”
