Urgent Warning as Deadly Algae Outbreak Shuts Down Crosby Marine Lake Until Further Notice

A popular Merseyside attraction, Crosby Marine Lake, has been closed indefinitely following the discovery of a deadly toxin in its waters. Tests have confirmed the presence of highly toxic blue-green algae, which poses a serious risk to both human and animal health.

Sefton Council issued an urgent public health warning, advising that all water-based activities at Crosby Lakeside Adventure Centre, including kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, and open water swimming, have been suspended until further notice. The area, popular with families and dog walkers, has been deemed unsafe after toxicology reports confirmed the harmful algae, which can cause severe illness in humans, including rashes and vomiting, and can be fatal to animals.

The Council is working closely with the Environment Agency to test the lake and monitor the situation, with hopes to reopen the site as soon as it is safe to do so. In their statement, Sefton Council emphasized that while not all blue-green algae blooms are toxic, it is impossible to identify dangerous outbreaks by sight alone. Therefore, as a precaution, the lake will remain closed.

Crosby Lakeside Adventure Centre, which regularly attracts visitors for its water sports and scenic views, expressed their regret over the closure, issuing a statement to the public:

"Unfortunately, due to an outbreak of blue-green algae, the lake at Crosby Lakeside will be closed until further notice. The site is working closely with the Environment Agency to test the lake and is taking steps to address the issue, looking to reopen at the earliest opportunity. Crosby Lakeside apologises to all our lake users for any inconvenience, but assures everyone that the safety of our Lake user groups is our main priority."

Local residents and visitors are urged to stay clear of the lake and avoid contact with the water. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.