Council discuss new safety rail at Southchurch Park lake

January 6, 2023

Installation of new safety rail at Southchurch Park lake is set to be discussed at cabinet next week (agenda item 17, Thursday 12 January 2023).

The timber shin rail that originally sat on sections of the eastern side of Southchurch Park lake was removed in 2020, as the barrier was no longer fit for purpose.

Following the removal of the barrier, a risk assessment has identified the need for a new safety rail in a number of areas of the eastern part of the lake to maintain specific protection, for instance, the duck feeding station.

It is important that these areas are protected but that the lake maintains its open aspect as much as possible. The council’s cabinet are recommended to agree the replacement of small sections of the rail where appropriate and keep the remainder of the eastern section open.

Cllr Carole Mulroney, cabinet member for environment, culture and tourism, said: “Southchurch Park is one of our many award-winning green flag parks and boasts of several facilities including a café, play facilities, sports facilities, car park, ornamental areas as well as a large lake, making it very popular with local residents, visitors, model-boating fanatics and wildlife alike.

“As such, the council need to ensure we minimize any risk to public safety, whilst enabling visitors to enjoy the vista of the lake, as they are able to do in parks all over the country.”

The report will be discussed at Cabinet on Thursday 12 January 2023.