Liverpool Council staff have retrieved hundreds of dead fish from the lake at Calderstones Park, with anglers estimating the death toll at over 400 amid soaring summer temperatures. The heatwave has also impacted wildlife at Speke Hall Woods, where a similar event occurred a year ago.
Anglers Report Extensive Fish Loss
Josh Edwards, an angler who has fished at Calderstones, told the ECHO that around 400 fish, including carp, have died in recent days. He attributed the deaths to low oxygen levels caused by algae formation. "It's because of the oxygen levels, the council doesn't have a clue. The algae forms in the water and it’s taking all of the oxygen," he said. Edwards noted that one of the fish was believed to be around 30 years old. "Carp are bottom feeders so they struggle to get the oxygen they need. It happens a lot during heatwaves and they bring aerators after the fact but once the fish are dead it’s too late."
Council Response and Investigation
A Liverpool Council spokesperson confirmed the die-off and said the lakes team has deployed mobile aerators to introduce oxygen and improve water quality. The council is also exploring wider improvement measures, including desilting, permanent aeration, and restoration of the lake's features. "We have carried out technical and environmental studies to support this programme and have secured part of the funding for the project. We are currently looking at additional funding opportunities to deliver the full programme," the spokesperson said. Similar improvements have already been implemented in other city parks.
Impact on Local Angling Community
Edwards, a relative beginner, said more experienced anglers have moved away from Liverpool due to better options elsewhere. He noted that Calderstones once offered good habitat for fish. "If it’s maintained, there’s definitely enough space for them and the water is good enough. When the algae builds up, it just sucks up all the oxygen. It really impacts the smaller fish like rudd and roach," he added.
Ongoing Monitoring
The council is visiting other lakes and ponds across the city this week to assess if action is needed and will continue monitoring during the warm weather. Park users have called for further measures to protect wildlife.
