Three years after pollution killed hundreds of fish, the transformation of a popular Birmingham beauty spot is set for completion. Work to improve pathways and water quality at Witton Lakes near Erdington begins this week thanks to funding from Birmingham City Council and the Environment Agency.

Witton Lakes

Under the scheme workmen will temporarily drain and de-silt part of the lake to improve water quality and wildlife habitats, reshape the stream that runs between between Erdington town centre and Witton Lakes then help the local environment by adding more reeds and other wildlife-friendly plants.

The work is scheduled to take around six weeks, with parks officials aiming to complete the project before scores of ducks and swans nest at the Stockland Green site in the spring.

In 2009 hundreds of fish died in Witton Lakes as heavy rainfall caused drains to overflow, polluting the Rivers Trent, Tame and Anker. The Lakes have since been re-stocked and the improvement work will complete the site’s transformation.

Meanwhile, the Friends of Witton Lakes group is preparing for the fourth annual Duckling Watch – a council-backed scheme to protect waterfowl. This initiative was launched in 2009 to deter potential vandalism of nests and the destruction of eggs. Volunteers patrol the Lakes from February to September, reporting any problems to officials.