Lakes plan on way

by Jennifer McCarthy

April 2, 2008

RESTORATION of the Hyde Park lakes is a step closer as the company responsible for designing a long-term solution for the lakes’ summertime emptiness nears completion of its plan.

Before the recent federal election, the then Labor opposition pledged $2 million dollars to see the lakes restored, and ALP member mayor Nick Catania says he’s “delighted” they did.

“It’s absolutely essential that local, state and federal governments get together to ensure that this historic and iconic park is maintained,” the mayor says. “Hyde Park is an iconic park and without the lakes the iconic symbolism fades away.”

A major concern in rehabilitating the area is the high acidity levels in the eastern lake. Although acidity is not high enough to harm people, it’s a worry for animals that call the park home, including long-neck tortoises and water birds, says Vincent councillor Dudley Maier.

“I think the most important thing is the whole science is understood so we get it right the first time,” says Cr Maier, referring to an attempted rehabilitation in the 1990s which ultimately led to the situation becoming worse.

Cr Maier called on the federal government to show the colour of its money.

“I’d be interested to know where the money’s coming from,” he said.