Strathclyde Loch restrictions remain in place

Jun 5 2008 by Shirley Bartynek, Hamilton Advertiser

AN unusual level of algae bloom detected last month in Strathclyde Loch is subsiding.

The problem at the loch was initially identified when a large number of dead fish were found on the shores.

The British Age Group Sprint Triathlon Championships were set to be held at the park last month.

But North Lanarkshire Council, in consultation with SEPA and NHS Lanarkshire, took the decision to cancel the event following the discovery.

Since then, the council have been working with SEPA to monitor the situation.

John Turnbull, Countryside and Landscape Manager with North Lanarkshire Council, said: “The presence of the algae in the loch has now subsided considerably and we anticipate that the loch’s normal conditions should be re-established in the near future.

“However, given the unusual nature of the algae bloom, it is considered prudent to continue the restrictions on the loch’s use until a further round of tests can be completed next week.

“The council has therefore agreed to continue the current precautionary measures relating to immersion watersports for several more days.”

Windsurfing, water skiing, canoeing and open-water swimming are only allowed on the loch when properly organised and supervised.

Permanent signage around the loch advises members of the public not to go into the water.

Temporary signs have been added to advise those using the watersports centre that the suspension is currently in effect.

Dr Eleanor Anderson, consultant in public health medicine with NHS Lanarkshire, added: “There have been no reports of harm to human health with this particular type of algal toxin.

“But other related algae have caused symptoms such as skin irritation in humans as well as health concerns in animals.

“We are therefore recommending that, as a precaution, members of the public follow advice if they are in contact with the lochwater.”

Dr Anderson warned pet-owners to keep their animals away from the loch meantime.

Pets should be washed in clean water if they accidentally go into the loch.