The popular beach and Aqua Park at Rutland Water will remain closed until further notice, it has now been announced, following an outbreak of blue-green algae.

An Anglian Water spokesperson said: "Unfortunately the levels of blue green algae are still too high at Rutland Water for us to be able to open the beach this weekend. The water at Rutland remains closed for all water sports, the Aqua Park and swimming.

"Unfortunately, there have been several occasions this week where our warnings have been ignored, but these high levels of blue-green algae can cause people to become very poorly and the health and safety of our visitors is paramount to us."

And he added: "We would also like to remind people visiting the park at Rutland that music and alcohol is not allowed. Recently with the warmer weather we have seen an increase in this type of activity and whilst we want people to enjoy their visit to the park, we would like people to be mindful of other visitors and the local residents of Rutland."

The beach and water park were closed after routine test results showed increased levels of blue-green algae in parts of the reservoir, and Anglian Water made the decision to restrict activities as a precaution. Swimming activity was been suspended while the algae levels were monitored further.

The rest of the park including angling, mini golf, bike hire, and all craft-based water sports are open as usual.

Jake Williams, Head of Parks and Conservation at Anglian Water, said algal blooms were a natural phenomenon, occurring in large bodies of water like reservoirs and rivers when the weather conditions were very warm and still like the last few weeks. 

"It is by its very nature difficult to prevent and control," he went on.

"We are sorry for any disappointment caused to visitors.

However, customer safety must come first.

"Please remember that dogs are not allowed in the water at the reservoir at any time of the year. Blue green algae can be toxic to dogs, so please take responsibility for their safety.

"We'll be monitoring the algae levels closely, so we can get things back up and running as soon as possible."

For up-to-date information contact [email protected].