A boating pond in an Inverness park will be drained for cleaning next week.
Highland Council has announced work to remove an invasive plant species from Whin Park pond will begin on Monday.
The non-native weed species known as the New Zealand Pygmy was discovered in the pond and officials want to act fast before it spreads and potentially hampers boating next season.
New Zealand Pygmy harms the pond’s biodiversity as it grows so fast and dense that it shades everything else, reducing sun exposure.
It can also spread through small plant particles by animals, wind and boats cruising around the pond during summer.
Whin Park play park to be upgraded
The invasive plant has already begun growing downstream from Whin Park, with council workers planning to lay heavy-duty jute to shade the plant of sunlight.
During the work, the pond will also be cleared of debris, with temporary signage for visitors, who can still have access to Whin Park.
This is part of the Whin Park refurbishment programme that will also upgrade and replace the existing play park.
Earlier this year, the Highland Council was alerted to the park’s condition and need for an upgrade after a local resident complained.
In response, council bosses said they aimed to create a “landmark” location by next year however the details have yet to be announced.
A spokeswoman for the council said: “The full cost and funding sources for the redevelopment of Whin Park have yet to be confirmed and sourced.
“The cost of the weed control works is being managed in-house by the council.”
The council aims to have the park fully operational, including the boating pond in time for the summer season next year.
Conversation