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Further dredging work to remove built-up silt at the lake will kickstart the first phase of improvements. To enable specialist contractor Teignmouth Maritime Services to carry out this work, the tidal lake will close from Tuesday 6 February. It will reopen once work is complete, and the tide is high enough to overtop the lake. It is currently estimated to reopen to the public during the week starting Monday 25 March, before the Easter bank holiday weekend.
Following the dredging work, Levelling Up funding will be used to improve walkways, steps and ramps, and other enhancements to the area including upgrading the public toilets. This work is due to be completed by spring next year (2025).
Councillor Mike Solomon, the council's executive member responsible for seafronts, said: “Dredging is an important next step in our exciting plans for Marine Lake within our Levelling Up funded programme. I’m sure local people, like me, will be encouraged to see this continued progress.
“Our Levelling Up funding is able to continue the work done previously thanks to the council’s earlier investment in bringing the lake back into use as an outdoor swimming and watersports destination. This was part of our 'Great Lakes' project, which also included work to improve Clevedon's Marine Lake and Portishead Lake Grounds.”
The council continues to work closely with the Weston Marine Lake Mudlarks, a group of volunteers who assist with the management of the lake.
Claire Trevor-Roper, one of the directors of the Mudlarks, said: "We’re extremely pleased that the council remains committed to not only maintaining but regenerating Marine Lake as a key attraction in the town. If anyone would like to know more, or volunteer, please look at our website www.westonmarinelake.co.uk.”
More information about the Levelling Up funded programme in Weston-super-Mare, which includes the Tropicana, Grove Park and Birnbeck Pier, can also be found on the council’s website at www.n-somerset.gov.uk/placemaking.