FLOODING problems at Radipole Lake, Weymouth, are likely to get worse because of climate change – unless a range of agencies work together to tackle the issues.

Radipole Dorset councillor Matt Bell (Lib Dem) says that around 2,500 people have been concerned enough about the problems to sign a petition calling for action.

Said Cllr Bell: “The petition calls for all stakeholders to prioritise silt removal from the lake and river to increase flood water capacity and to reduce flooding in surrounding areas such as Radipole Park and Gardens where outfalls are believed to be hampered by the high silt level.

"The petition also calls for the creation of a consistent and effective management programme to be followed moving forward

"Unfortunately, Radipole Lake has been neglected for many years and is no longer the prized asset it once was.”

READ: Radipole Lake - progress made with dredging plan

He says the concerns include the potential risks to the Site of Special Scientific Interest status held by the nature reserve, flooding of the adjacent road, park, gardens and businesses, algae growth as well as the loss of a high-quality angling venue.

He points out that the recently improved facilities at Radipole Park and Gardens spent much of last autumn and winter flooded.

Cllr Bell says that Wessex Water’s statement in May that it would clear outfalls along Radipole Park by the end of August 2024 has not happened, partially due to thick vegetation growth hampering access to some areas.

“There are also investigations ongoing into potential grants for silt removal and habitat restoration and I hope these can be expedited working closely with our colleagues at Natural England and RSPB.”

He says that with every decision seemed to involve multiple organisations, he wants Dorset Council to drives the necessary changes – although a September meeting regarding the lake was cancelled due to other officer commitments.

READ: Promising meeting for Radipole Lake silt dredge

Council leader Cllr Nick Ireland says a Water Level Management Plan working group was established in February 2024 to review the issues and develop a sustainable approach going forward.

“Several key partners are involved, including Natural England, RSPB, Dorset Council and the Environment Agency. Partner organisations are of the view that local interventions on their own are not sustainable or cost effective. A more strategic approach is required considering impacts from the wider river catchment, and management of reed growth,” said Cllr Ireland.

He says that among the actions identified is for the Environment Agency to investigate the main River Wey catchment upstream to determine if farming practises can be modified to reduce siltation and agri-chemicals entering the  catchment.

The leader says a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) condition assessment is ongoing for the lake while Natural England and the RSPB are developing a habitat restoration bid for Countryside Stewardship funding.

“As an interim measure, Wessex Water have been requested to arrange inspection of the public surface water outfalls into the lake to ensure they are blockage free. This has been delayed due to access issues, but they are looking to meet in October to review their programme of works.”

(Image: Cllr Matt Bell)

Cllr Ireland says the Water Level Management Plan working group will continue to meet regularly.

Said the council leader: “Unfortunately, the risk of flooding to the low-lying areas adjacent to the lake, including Radipole Lake Drive and Gardens, are likely to increase because of climate change impacts.

"The area is already at risk of main River Wey flooding as identified by the Environment Agency and this will increase in future years.

"However, we will do what we can to manage flood risk proportionately by adopting sustainable interventions which offset the effects of climate change, and the partnership approach we are taking will be beneficial in this regard.”