Boating lake leak probe after refill fails
Redcar Model Boat ClubAn investigation into a leak at a boating lake is under way after an attempt to refill it failed.
The lake at Newcomen Terrace in Coatham, Redcar, was filled with water in a test last month following repairs.
But members of Redcar Model Boat Club said it was empty the following day.
Redcar and Cleveland Council said a fresh investigation started last week and future repairs would be confirmed once it has finished.
The lake, which is about 100 years old, has been blighted by low levels of water for more than three years.
The structure was emptied and cleaned last September and repairs were carried out.
Redcar Model Boat ClubThere were hopes it could be back to its former glory in the spring, with a test refill carried out in early April.
The local authority said it had tried to fill it using a temporary above-ground pumping arrangement.
"Unfortunately, the boating lake only held the water for a short period of time requiring further investigation as to the possible cause of the leak," a spokesperson said.
Redcar Boating Club, which had been hoping to sail some of its boats in the lake on VE Day, said it had to put its vessels back in their boxes.
The club previously said it had struggled to attract new members amid issues with the lake and has raced remote controlled cars there instead.
An investigation started last week, with works including a full topographical survey of the boating lake, use of ground penetrating radar and the drilling of 30 cores across the base and walls.
"Once this work has been completed, we will be in a position to determine the next steps and timescale for the necessary repairs," the council spokesperson said.
A solution is also being worked up for the lake's underground pump.
It fills the structure with sea water, but it has come to the end of its life and regularly floods, the spokesperson added.