Peter Hopper Lake in Mill Park is set to get an upgrade, with new features that will improve the long-term health of the lake and provide a beautiful natural landscape within Redleap Recreation Reserve.
The lake, which is one of the City of Whittlesea's largest water bodies, has faced recurrent algal blooms in recent years causing the water quality in the lake to decline.
City of Whittlesea Chair Administrator Lydia Wilson said that while various treatments undertaken by Council have had some success in restoring water quality, the effects have not been long-lasting and further work is required.
"We want to ensure that the lake is restored to its former beauty and remains a place the community and wildlife can enjoy for years to come," she said.
"When Peter Hopper Lake was built over 40 years ago, the design standards for lakes were quite different to what they are today. We have been working with specialist consultants over the past year to find the best solution for the lake - one that will provide the functionality required to keep the water clean and healthy in the long-term."
The upgrade works will involve draining the lake to clear out the silt and sediment that has built up over the years. Council will then build a new rain garden in the northern part of Redleap Recreation Reserve, a sediment pond at the lake's inlet and replant aquatic native vegetation that will help filter water flowing into the lake. These features will provide constant movement of water and alleviate the issues currently caused by stagnant water.
We thank the Friends of Peter Hopper Lake for continuing to share their insights about the site which has helped to shape the approach being taken. We will continue to work closely with the Friends group and ensure we are keeping the broader Mill Park community informed as we undertake the upgrade of the Lake.
"Council will be working closely with ecologists to ensure that all the wildlife in and around the lake are cared for and either safely relocated or rehomed while the upgrade is taking place."
Work on the lake is expected to begin in early 2024.
To view the concept plan and to provide your feedback on what aspects of the lake are important to you, visit www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/peterhopperlake
