A WIRRAL boating lake is to remain closed for the time being after harmful levels of blue-green algae were found during a recent inspection.

The lake in Gautby Road, Birkenhead, was temporarily closed for safety reasons on June 24, until an inspection could be done by the Environment Agency.

The inspection has now been carried out and revealed a high concentration of blue-green algae, known to be dangerous to people and animals.

All visitors are asked to avoid the water and keep dogs and animals on leads when near the lake.

A spokesperson for Wirral Council said: "The Environment Agency will continue working with the council to carry out inspections and tests of the water to see when the lake is safe to reopen again.

"In the meantime, the council and the boating club will be undertaking aeration works – which will involve pumping oxygen into the water to increase the water flow – to help lower the amount of blue-green algae.

"If further tests reveal that blue-green algae remains in high concentrations, treatments will be looked at so that the lake can reopen.

"Signs have been installed to tell people using the area that the lake is closed and to reinforce the reason for its closure."