Dozens of fish die at popular Derbyshire park amid mini-heatwave

Last week’s hot spell – which saw temperatures reach almost 30°C – caused a number of fish to die at a Derbyshire park.
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On Sunday, June 19, residents in Belper were alarmed to find that a number of fish had died at the town’s Riverside Gardens.

The deaths were reported to the Environment Agency, and Paul Reeves, water quality lead for the East Midlands Environment Agency, said the deaths were a result of last week’s hot weather.

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“Officers from the East Midlands Environment Agency have been investigating a number of dead fish at Belper’s River Gardens in Derbyshire.

The fish died after the rapid change in temperature last week. 
Credit: Sharon LakerThe fish died after the rapid change in temperature last week. 
Credit: Sharon Laker
The fish died after the rapid change in temperature last week. Credit: Sharon Laker

"Early indications are that it is related to low oxygen levels due to the hot weather on Friday followed by lower atmospheric pressure and rain yesterday.”

Coun Ben Bellamy, who sits on Belper Town Council, said that conversations were underway with Amber Valley Borough Council to stop these deaths from happening again.

“I have spoken to environmental services at the Borough, and are trying to ensure that the fountain is turned on/fixed to help introduce oxygen into the water and help prevent a reoccurrence.

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“The situation is not helped by people continuing to feed bread into the pond for ducks, which creates excess nutrients and the algae bloom. People are requested to feed the birds (if they must) along the promenade, while the problem in the flowing water is alleviated.”