The Member of the Welsh Parliament for Aberconwy – Janet Finch-Saunders MS – has today (02 October) given her support to a local campaign to save the Llyn Anafon lake, following a decision by Dŵr Cymru to drain the former reservoir by 4.5ft over the next decade.
The site, which is nestled on the Carneddau mountains, is a popular retreat for local anglers, picnickers, walkers, and mountain bikers. There is concern amongst residents that the lake’s resident brown trout will be displaced because of the draining. The reservoir is also home to flora and fauna which, according to a 2016 survey by Natural Resources Wales, is “probably unique in the United Kingdom”.
Praising the work of local residents to save Llyn Anafon, Janet said:
“The Llyn Anafon lake has a treasured and cherished history for the people of Llanfairfechan, Dwygyfylchi and Penmaenmawr. The reservoir, which was originally built in 1929, was proudly left to its own devices after it was decommissioned which allowed the wildlife and fauna to thrive.
“As well as a thriving population of brown trout, this remarkable piece of natural history heritage is home to a small population of otters. The lake is also surrounded by unique assembly of 21 flora species, hosting populations of two rare broad-leaved Potamogeton hybrids which are fed by the water.
“After draining caused issues for sheep and wild ponies in 2008, residents have shared with me their anxiety about the impact of draining on the surrounding farmland. I am incredibly concerned that Dŵr Cymru has not given all due consideration to the concerns and proposals of residents and stakeholders.
“With this in mind, I am today joining a local campaign which asks Dŵr Cymru to work with the villagers of LLanfairfechan to ensure the preservation and safeguarding of this lake for future posterity. Proposals to form a trust are not only sensible, but they would give power to the true custodians of this land.”
ENDS
Notes for Editors:
- A petition to save Llyn Anafon can be signed by heading to: https://www.change.org/p/d%C5%B5r-cymru-welsh-water-save-llyn-anafon-aber-lake?redirect=false
