Suffolk water sports centre reopens after algae bloom ends
Alton Water Picture: SIMON PAGE - Credit: Archant
A popular Suffolk water sports centre has reopened after being blighted with blue-green algae throughout the summer.
Aqua Park Suffolk, Alton Water, Ipswich Picture: AQUA PARKS GROUP - Credit: Archant
Alton Water reservoir, near Ipswich, has today reopened for water sports and sailing activities after the discovery of the algae in July forced it to close along with a new aqua park.
People with bookings for the Suffolk Aqua Park – a 72-obstacle inflatable – were left dismayed after it was only open for two weeks of the summer season.
Bosses apologised for the “disappointment caused” but full refunds were offered.
The algae can release toxins which can cause skin rashes, eye irritation, vomiting, diarrhoea, fever and muscle and joint pain if swallowed.
A sign warning about the blue-green algae at Alton Water Picture: TERRY HUNT - Credit: TERRY HUNT
Anglian Water said the algae bloom had now ended due to the cooler autumnal weather.
Jake Williams, head of parks and conservation at Anglian Water, said: “We’re really pleased to let people know that water sports centre is back open for business.
“Algal blooms are not new. They are a natural phenomenon, occurring in large bodies of water like reservoirs and rivers across the UK when the weather conditions are very hot and still – as we saw over the majority of the summer.
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“It is by its very nature difficult to prevent and control.
Aqua Park Suffolk, Alton Water, Ipswich Picture: AQUA PARKS GROUP - Credit: Archant
“Customer safety is our highest priority, which is why we took the decision to close all water sports facilities at the reservoir as a precaution.”
The water sports centre remained open for land-based activities such as fishing, cycling and camping.
