Due to high blue-green algae levels in Chew Valley lake, we have had to take the difficult decision to suspend all activities that come into contact with the water on Chew. This includes bank angling, boat angling and sailing. This notice is in place until further notice.
Blue-green algae is naturally-occurring in places like reservoirs but it can be harmful to animals and humans so please stay away from the water until the bloom clears. Please adhere to the warning signs in place at the reservoir. We will continue to take samples and look to lift this restriction as soon as practicably possible.
There are associated risks to public health from contact with the water which may include and not be limited to skin irritation, respiratory issues, sickness etc. This may also be the case for pets (dogs) coming into contact with the water.
There isn’t a safe or effective way for us to remove the algae from the reservoir, however we would like to reassure our customers that this will not impact water supplies. We have an extensive treatment process which is designed to remove any algae before it reaches your tap to make sure it’s clean and ready to drink, but as a precautionary measure we have stopped abstracting water from the lake.
Once the algae levels drop to a safe level we will update this page.
Please note that the picnic areas, Salt and Malt, Woodford Lodge restaurant and Woodford Tackle shop are open as usual.
For more information about blue-green algae please see the Canal River Trust website.