Environmental group SWAN (Save Wildlife and Nature Group) react to Balderton Lake decision as Balderton Parish Council terminates YMCA water sports licence

A group of environmental campaigners have reacted to the news that a contract to conduct water spots on a well known wildlife spot will be terminated.

On Wednesday evening (July 26) Balderton Parish Council voted in favour of terminating the YMCA Newark and Sherwood’s licence to use Balderton Lake for kayaking and canoeing activities.

Members of SWAN (Save Wildlife and Nature Group) are thrilled to announce will the council’s decision, describing it as “momentous” after years of campaigning.

The group have said that the decision reflects the views of residents and the community that Balderton Lake should be safeguarded as a sanctuary for wildlife and also takes into account concerns regarding health and safety, the preservation of peace, tranquility and well-being.

For the past 18 months, SWAN campaigners have held regular demonstrations and rallies with a commitment to protecting the natural habitat of Balderton Lake and it’s wildlife.

The group also held community art events, candle vigils, wildlife walks, peaceful protests, and organised a petition which receive almost 3,800 signatures.

Karen Callingham from SWAN said: "We want to extend a huge thank you to everyone who signed the campaign petition, attended meetings and events, displayed posters and flyers, and helped spread the word far and wide.

“Without your unwavering support, we would not have been able to achieve this significant milestone in preserving the lake."

Balderton Lake is home to numerous birds, including kingfishers, greylag goose, mallard, moorhen, sparrowhawk, wren, and song thrush.

The YMCA conducted a number of ecological report in the process of laying out their plans for the lake, with the latest revealing a 157% increase in birdlife, compared to their first report in 2018.

Their latest findings show the lake now supports 36 bird species (with 13 species meeting the criteria of at least one legislation) and identified new mammals using the lake.

Another SWAN campaigner, Jean Hall, recognised the benefits of affordable kayaking for local youths and expressed the group’s willingness to collaborate with the YMCA.

She said: “We’re keen to work with the YMCA to help them Identify and support existing local water-sport facilities, ensuring the enrichment of the district's offerings in sites that are purpose-built and safer while also bolstering local businesses. We are here to support them.”