Lakes get a boost

Aberford Lakes in Borehamwood are to get a £150,000 face-lift.

An eight-week period of works begins this month (February) which will result in improved flood protection to the area; improved water quality which will benefit the habitat and overall enhancement to the area.

Hertsmere Borough Council has been working in partnership with the Environment Agency, who are contributing to the cost of the works, estimated to cost around £150,000 in total.

Simon Payton, Engineering Service Manager, said: "We regularly assess this area and the latest survey found that the upper lake needs de-silting to restore its full design potential and to maintain the quality of the water environment.

"It also found that the lower lake is choked with vegetation and a programme of habitat management is planned to provide environmental improvements, restore flows and regain lost storage volumes."

Cllr Jean Heywood, portfolio holder for the environment, said: "Many people take great pleasure in using our local parks and amenities. The work is vitally important as it will help to ensure that the lakes and surrounding area are maintained for generations to come."

The original design of the lakes included four fountains, which were put in to assist aeration of the water and to make the lakes look better. These have become blocked with silt, and there is also a problem with weed affecting their operation during the summer months. The fountains have been removed for refurbishment and we have designed a modified installation with the assistance of the fountain manufacturers and are planning to carry this out after the de-silting works have been completed.

George Campbell, from the Environment Agency, said: "We are delighted to be able to contribute £50,000 towards the cost of these works, which will provide urgent de-silting maintenance and restore the design flood protection.

"There are three watercourses which flow into the Aberford Lakes, and it is important that these can discharge freely and will not increase flood risk to the Borehamwood area."

The works are being funded by a flood defence grant from central government, along with the contribuiton from the Environment Agency. The exact costs will depend on the quantity of silt removed, as disposal costs are a major part of the overall cost.