Avian flu cases confirmed at Alexandra Park

CLOSED: The picturesque boating lake at Alexandra Park. Image courtesy of Peter Hyde

Government officials have confirmed Avian flu has been found at Alexandra Park after a number of birds were found dead in the boating lake.

To stop the spread of the disease, the boating lake will be closed to all activities, including fishing, until further notice.

Council officials will continue to monitor the situation.

Park staff have placed signs around the lake asking people to not feed any birds, keep dogs on leads near the water and stay on the paths.

Visitors are also asked not to touch or try to rescue sick or injured birds and to report any they see to park staff. 

Councillor Hannah Roberts, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, said: “This is very sad news as the birds in Alexandra Park are very popular with visitors.

“The UK is currently facing its largest ever outbreak of avian flu with cases reported across the country.

"Avian flu has nothing to do with water quality or the environment and poses a low risk to humans.

“Anyone who keeps birds must, by law, keep them housed and follow strict bio-security measures.”

If anyone spots a dead bird in the park, they are asked to report it to the park staff.

There is full government advice on avian flu available here

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