FISH in a New Milton lake are to be relocated as part of an environmental improvement works scheme. 

New Milton Town Council will commence work on September 23 and will take an approximately eight weeks to complete.

The council has placed fyke nets, which is a type of fish trap, to collect the fish which they will hand over to its contractor, Lvel Aquatics.

A spokesperson for New Milton Town Council said: "Currently there are fyke nets in the lake being regularly monitored in preparation for these works to start. 

"Works include draining the lake, recovering and relocating fish, desilting, reinstating revetments, and aquatic planting. 

"Our approved contractor, Lvel Aquatics, is experienced in these types of environmental projects working in conjunction with the Environment Agency to ensure regulations and permits are in place."

The environmental efforts at Ballard Lake come after the depth of the lake reduced by 100mm in the summer of 2021.

The reduction in water led to dissolved oxygen levels falling "perilously low" and it was considered that the fish population rose to an "unmanageable level".

Ballard Lake is not a fishing lake and found that the fish, which are predominately carp, had begun to die due to the decreased oxygen levels despite efforts made.

Working with Lvel Aquatics in 2023, over 1,000 fish were removed from the lake to avoid further fish dying.

The spokesperson for New Milton Town Council said: "The contractors will be on-site Monday to Friday from 8am – 5pm.  Water pumps will be in operation around the lake as well as other machinery and vehicles during this period.

"Health and Safety are of paramount importance, and we ask all residents and visitors to take care and be more aware in the area."

The works are expected to cost £45,000 and a sample of fish will be submitted for a health check as required by law.

It is believed the works are part of a £145,000 lake enhancement which includes the construction of a new link footpath and footbridge replacement.

The new footpath will link around the lake's western and eastern edge, tying with the existing Green Way.