Concerns Grow as Dozens of Dead Fish Found in Wigan Lake

Local residents and officials are calling for urgent action after multiple deceased pike were discovered in a popular Wigan park, with environmental experts pointing to recent weather extremes as a primary cause.

Concerns have been mounting in the Leigh community after several dead fish were spotted floating in the pond at Firs Park on Hulme Road. The sightings, which began over the weekend, have sparked alarm among park-goers and local representatives alike.

The Environment Agency has attributed the incident to the period of extreme dry weather that has recently gripped the nation. Experts suggest that the lack of rainfall, coupled with high temperatures, has caused the natural pool to warm to dangerous levels, placing significant strain on the local aquatic ecosystem.

A "Warning Sign" for Wildlife

David Evans, a Reform councillor for Leigh West, visited the site personally to assess the damage. He reported discovering 14 dead fish during a single inspection, describing the pike as particularly vulnerable to the current conditions.

"The main concerns are that the water level is way too low," Councillor Evans told the M.E.N. "When I was there last night, the temperature was 21.18C in the water. The pike are the first to be sensitive to the heated water. They’re your first warning."

Beyond the loss of wildlife, Councillor Evans raised serious health and safety concerns regarding the state of the park. He noted that the receding water has exposed mudflats around the pond’s central island, creating a potential hazard for children during the school holidays. Furthermore, he claimed that a blocked inlet connecting the pond to the nearby Fir Tree Flash has exacerbated the issue, arguing that the lack of maintenance has led to the current environmental decline.

Official Response

In response to the reports, an Environment Agency spokesperson confirmed that Catchment Fisheries Officers visited the lake on August 18. "We observed four dead fish and low water levels," the spokesperson stated. "We believe this is related to ongoing drought conditions, but oxygen levels were monitored and found to be within a safe range for coarse fish at the time of inspection."

The Agency added that they are continuing to collaborate with the local angling club to identify the best management approach for the fishery.

Meanwhile, Wigan Council has acknowledged the situation. A spokesperson for the local authority said: "We are aware of the reports of dead fish in Firs Park in Leigh and have been liaising with partners to monitor the situation and support the long-term improvement of the lake."

As the community waits for further intervention, local residents remain watchful of the park’s health, hoping that clearer strategies will be implemented to prevent further loss of life among the pond’s wildlife.