DOG walkers have been warned of a dangerous form of algae growing in West End ponds.
The potentially deadly blue-green algae is believed to have been seen in the popular Victoria Park pond and Bingham’s Pond on Great Western Road, prompting the colour of the water to shift to a green tinge.
Signs have appeared to ensure those using the park are aware of the dangers and have been urged to keep pets and children away from the area.
Jill Ferguson, who frequents the popular West End walking spots, said she was alarmed when she spotted the green plants growing on the pond.
READ MORE: Fears Glasgow's 'crumbling' Shieldhall flyover could collapse
She said: “It’s been going on for a long time but getting worse over time.
“I go there a lot for walks and to take photos.
“You can tell how bad the quality of the water is when the ducks have left and the swans are sitting outside the pond, they aren’t in it.”
She added: “It’s really worrying, even for people walking their dog because if they dive in or drink it and people don’t notice the signs, a dog’s life could be at risk.”
An investigation is underway to confirm the type of algae growing on the pond.
However, it’s understood the Christmas Eve cyber-attack on the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa) has caused indefinite lab delays, which has halted any attempt to test the plants.
The attack was described as “serious and complex” and caused a “significant impact” on the contact centre, internal systems, processes and communications.
In a statement issued at the time, the group said: “Following the attack, we immediately enacted our business continuity arrangements and took immediate action to limit the impact of the cyber-attack, notifying relevant authorities, including the Scottish Government, Police Scotland, the National Cyber Security Centre and the Information Commissioner’s Office with whom we continue to work.
“While Police Scotland has indicated the likely involvement of international serious and organised crime, Sepa has been clear that it will not engage with criminals intent on disrupting public services and extorting public funds. The matter is subject to a live criminal investigation.”
While lab results are pending, those using the area have been advised to heed safety advice by steering clear of the pond area.
A Glasgow City Council spokesperson said: “We share the concerns about the possible presence of blue-green algae.
READ MORE: GMB union's 'urgent' letter to Glasgow council leader Susan Aitken
“Unfortunately, due to matters outwith our control, we are unable to have the plants in the pond tested by Sepa to determine whether or not they are indeed blue-green algae.
“As soon as these plants can be tested by Sepa and it can be confirmed they are blue-green algal blooms, we look closely at what measures might be effective and appropriate.
“In the meantime, as a precaution, we advise all visitors to the park to keep out of the pond and to ensure any pets do not come into contact with the water or blooms.
“Signposts have been put up around the pond to remind park visitors that they shouldn’t go into the water for their own well-being.”
Comments & Moderation
Readers’ comments: You are personally liable for the content of any comments you upload to this website, so please act responsibly. We do not pre-moderate or monitor readers’ comments appearing on our websites, but we do post-moderate in response to complaints we receive or otherwise when a potential problem comes to our attention. You can make a complaint by using the ‘report this post’ link . We may then apply our discretion under the user terms to amend or delete comments.
Post moderation is undertaken full-time 9am-6pm on weekdays, and on a part-time basis outwith those hours.
Read the rules here