Parish council urges residents to read second independent ecology report for Balderton Lake commissioned by YMCA

A parish council that owns a lake where kayaking plans have angered some of its residents is urging people to read an ecology report that says no harm will be done wildlife.

The YMCA has an agreement with Balderton Parish Council to use the lake on a select few days of the year for small groups.

A planning application needs to be lodged with Newark and Sherwood District Council for that to happen.

Campaigners opposed to the plans have long claimed that kayaking would cause harm to wildlife.

However, an independent ecology report found differently and the parish council is now urging its residents to read it to allay any fears they may have.

“Balderton Lake has been the centre of much attention over the last few months," said the council.

"The parish council, after much consideration and numerous meetings spanning several years, agreed to the YMCA’s request to allow a restricted amount of supervised kayaking and canoeing on Balderton Lake. "There have since been some concerns raised, by a minority of people, over this option in relation to ensuring the safety and protection of wildlife on, and around, the lake.

"To determine whether wildlife could be at risk, the YMCA conducted a second independent ecological report. We are pleased to see that the report identifies that there are no protected nature conservation interests on the lake or nearby that would be materially affected by the proposals and that the kayaking and canoeing will not impact the wildlife. Indeed, we welcome the recommendations for enhancements to create additional breeding opportunities for a range of protected species.

“This report has been produced by an independent company so there is no bias in the findings and it gives a true reflection on the situation. We are satisfied with the extremely detailed report and are reassured that there is no detrimental impact to the wildlife who are at home on our beautiful lake.

“The plans will see the YMCA use just a designated, agreed area that will be cordoned off during the activity for up to three hours a day from April to September each year to run supervised kayaking and canoeing sessions.

"We are delighted that the scheme will bring more children, families, young people and adults to the lake, giving them something new to try while also increasing their fitness.

"It will also add to the fantastic facilities the YMCA already offers.

“The parish council is grateful for this second independent ecological report and hope that it alleviates any concerns local residents may have. We would like to reassure residents that we always have, and always will, put the protection of our local wildlife and their habitats first when considering plans like this. If we felt for any reason that this was to be compromised, we would not support the scheme.

"Since the parish council purchased the lake and surrounding area in the late 1980’s, our groundstaff have transformed this former gravel pit into the green haven that it is today and we are very proud to maintain and build on this for all to enjoy.

“This has been, and we are sure will continue to be, a very emotive issue and it has received a lot of contentious coverage, especially on social media. Therefore, we would like to encourage everyone to read the latest ecological survey for themselves for any further reassurance."