The water quality used to be checked regularly with the results posted: in recent years this has not happened and, upon enquiring why, we were advised by the Environmental Agency and DEFRA that the lake was not designated as an EU Bathing Water Beach.

This view was challenged and, in September 2019, Gosport (and/or Fareham) Borough Council obtained funding to carry out tests in May, July and September each year but not for a notice board on which to display them. We sought ways to display these results and agreed with East Solent Coastal Partnership to provide space on their amenity board on completion of the flood prevention works. We also offered to post the results on local social media.

Gosport (and/or Fareham) Borough Council have not provided any readings since that time and we have no knowledge of any having been carried out.

In August 2021, dead fish and eels were discovered and action taken by Southern Water to re-oxygenate the water. At a subsequent Climate Board Meeting, Gosport Borough Council were unable to confirm the exact cause but suggested that hot and dry weather may have contributed to this incident. The water temperatures and salinity had increased and reduced oxygenation for wildlife. It was agreed that repairs should be made to the sluice gates which controls water levels and flow rates. A useful decision but no subsequent action taken by Gosport (and/or Fareham) Borough Council as at June 2026.

There has been a repeat of this incident in the even more prolonged hot, dry weather of 2026.

Natural England responded to concerns raised in September 2019 by agreeing to commission a new survey of the lake which would be taking place over the following weeks to include an analysis of water quality. We have yet to see that report.

Each year, GBC have appointed an external contractor to rake the lake removing much of the weed. Environmental Health were also contacted regarding the status of the lake in respect of bathing water quality and have reported as being sound.