Calls grow for Canoe Lake regeneration as council develops new plans
The council said it will “develop a strong, deliverable proposal for Canoe Lake”
A plan to help protect Canoe Lake could be in the pipeline amid mounting calls from a local litter-picking group for regeneration of the historic site.
Portsmouth City Council has confirmed that it is working with key stakeholders to look at the popular community park which attracts many hundreds of visitors each day in the summer months.
It comes as the litter-picking group Protect our Parks Portsmouth has urged the council to apply for National Lottery Heritage funding to help restore the 140-year-old site in Southsea.
The group argues the lake “requires a dedicated investment strategy to ensure its long term preservation”.
Under the proposals, funding could be used to restore the “unique Victorian character of the lake” and surrounding gardens.
It could also be used to improve infrastructure such as “improving pathways and accessibility to ensure the site remains inclusive for all residents”.
Protect Our Parks Portsmouth says heritage funding would “demonstrate a clear commitment to protecting our community’s heritage without placing the entire financial burden on the local budget”.
Other aims include improving water quality and the wider environment to support local wildlife and biodiversity.
A council spokesperson said: “We recognise Canoe Lake as an important and historic part of Portsmouth’s seafront, with real potential to enhance both its environment and its valued heritage features.
“The area is identified in our Seafront Masterplan as a key leisure and recreation destination for residents and visitors alike.
“While we previously explored a National Lottery Heritage Fund bid for the site, which was unsuccessful, we have continued to secure investment for other important projects across the city, including the successful restoration of Victoria Park.
“Now that project is complete, we are keen to revisit opportunities for Canoe Lake.
“We will work closely with stakeholders to develop a strong, deliverable proposal for Canoe Lake and bring forward plans in due course”
The group has also launched a petition to ban barbecues around the lake, saying they increase litter and may harm the local swan population.
The petition has now reached more than 5,200 signatures.
The council previously said it would consider measures such as CCTV to tackle littering.
It also said it will gather information over spring and summer to review “whether changes need to be made, including the use of barbecues”.