Park group could collapse after lake dispute sparks resignations

DM17417193a.jpg. Trees cut in Mewsbrook Park Littlehampton. Clive and Sue Fennell and Tony Carter, right, beside the trees that were cut through. Photo by Derek Martin SUS-170404-175239008

A park group is on the verge of collapse after a dispute with the council led to two key members resigning.

Clive and Sue Fennell will stand down as chairman and secretary of the Friends of Mewsbrook Park at the end of the month after feeling ignored by Arun District Council about the condition of the lake.

Sue, 51, said she felt ‘totally let down’: “I have been volunteering for 30 years and this is the first time I have not felt respected as a volunteer.

“We have done a brilliant job in bringing the group into the 21st century, the community are behind us because they know we love the park, but when you take things forward to the council on behalf of the public it is like hitting your head against a brick wall.”

Clive said last year the council lowered the lake’s water levels to kill off the spiral tasselweed that grew there, ignoring the group’s warning that it was a food source for native birds.

As a result, Clive said a lot of wildlife has left the lake, and no cygnets survived this year. He added that the exposed mud caused a foul smell and scum coated the water due to an aerator which was installed to counter the lack of plantlife.

After this, the working relationship with the council broke down, prompting Clive and Sue’s departure. The group needs replacements or it will disband after 13 years.