MAJOR improvement work has been carried out at a Tardebigge lake to preserve its special site of scientific interest status.

Hewell Grange Lake had a history of drying out and had deteriorated into a mud hole.

The Environment Agency, Severn Trent Water and British Waterways teamed up to improve the lake's water supply.

The lake was not filling up in winter because surface streams were being diverted to fill the Worcester and Birmingham Canal. The winter flows from one of these feeder streams has now been diverted back into the lake to help the refilling process.

Blakenhurst Prison, which is near the lake, and HM Prisons Service worked with the reservoir engineers on the lake's dam and sealed leaks.

A borehole was also drilled to the underground water store. Water can now be pumped directly into the lake allowing levels to be controlled. This will prevent it drying out in the summer and create a better environment for the wildlife.

A water level recorder is also due to be installed.

John Ratcliffe, from the Environment Agency, said: "This is an excellent project involving a number of parties working together to restore the lake's environment and ensure the estate is bought back to its former glory."

English Nature is responsible for identifying and protecting sites of special scientific interest, which are the country's best wildlife and geological areas.

sarah.mawhinney@midlands.

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