Weston-super-Mare's Marine Lake re-opens after dredging

Sluice gates will be opened a few times a year to drain the water and clean out the build-up of mud

A lake has re-opened following the removal of 30,000 tonnes of silt.

Marine Lake in Weston-super-Mare has undergone a £300,000 refurbishment, paid for by North Somerset Council, which wants to create "an outdoor swimming and watersports destination".

Councillor Mike Solomon said he was "delighted" to see the lake on Weston's sea front back in use.

Weston Marine Lake dates back to the 1920s but has recently been unsuitable for swimming due to muddy waters.

North Somerset Council brought in specialist contractors from the Netherlands who spent two months removing the compacted silt to help restore the lake's original depth of around 13 feet.

Other improvements include the sluice gates being replaced and new steps to help swimmers get in and out of the water.

North Somerset Council is also investing money in revitalising lakes in Clevedon and Portishead

Councillor John Crockford-Hawley, the council's heritage champion, has been campaigning for the lake's restoration for many years.

"As with all such tidal projects it's essential to keep up with regular maintenance," he said.

"After storm damage and a decade without investment, it's so pleasing to see our lake back in use for paddling and serious swimming, healthy family fun and simple beachside relaxation.

"I look forward to taking the plunge once the temperature rises a degree or two," he added.

Members of the volunteer group Mudlarks are looking forward to helping the council maintain the lake

Claire Trevor-Roper, one of the directors of volunteer group the Marine Lake Mudlarks, said the reopening "should significantly boost the area, both for locals and for the tourist trade".

The Mudlarks group has around 600 volunteers who will help to maintain the lake and its facilities.

The investment is part of the council's £700,000 'Great Lakes' project which also involves work to revitalise Clevedon's Marine Lake and Portishead Lake Grounds.