‘Worrying’ fish deaths at Shrewsbury pond revealed… and innocent pursuit ‘could be a problem’

A number of deaths have been reported at The Mere in Springfield, Shrewsbury, amid concerns the fish may have been poisoned.

It follows an investigation launched after thousands of swollen dead fish floated to the surface of Lake Holmer in Telford in August.

Sutton councilor Rosemary Dartnall took action to address contamination fears.

But he warned that the dangers of removing parasite-ridden fish from the pond and people keeping ducks there may have contributed to the problem.

He said: “Many residents have been contacted about worrying fish kills in the pond. There are natural causes behind the lack of oxygen in the water. And there are no pollution incidents, so there is no contamination.”

“The solution will take time. What is clear now is that this year’s autumn leaf fall has covered the surface and limited the oxygen and light entering the water below. Increasing leaf fall over the years has led to the formation of heavy silt on the bottom of the pond; each year the leaves decompose and sink into the water. it now contains less oxygen than the fish need to thrive.

“It cannot be removed because the fish have parasites. Giving bread to ducks and swans may be a problem.

“Shrewsbury Borough Council is working to resolve the situation.”