Message to HRA from the SCC Lead Ranger re concerns raised about water quality on The Common (7/7/26)

“Thank you for getting in touch.

I wanted to provide an update regarding the concerns raised about water quality. There is likely to be leptospirosis present in the waterways, as is the case with almost every body of water and ditch across the UK due to the presence of rats. This is a naturally occurring risk in outdoor water environments.

Blue‑green algae has also been an issue in the Boating lake previously and typically appears to varying degrees each year. Last year, the Environment Agency advised that levels didn’t get high enough to require fencing off, but we continue to monitor conditions closely.

It is also important to note that dogs should not be entering the water in this area, as indicated by the signage on site. In practice, it is very rare to see dogs in the Boating lake.

If the illnesses you are hearing about relate specifically to the Common, another possibility is that dogs may have come across remnants of BBQs or food waste left behind, or even areas used for toileting. Any of these could easily cause stomach upsets or illness in dogs, especially in warm weather.

At the moment, it sounds as though the reports are anecdotal. If you receive any more concrete information or information from a vet regarding what it might be, please do let me know so we can look into it further.

We will continue to keep a close eye on the lakes and any signs of blue‑green algae, and we seek advice from the Environment Agency whenever further action may be required.

Kind regards,

Dawn

Dawn Bannatyne

Dawn Bannatyne

Lead Ranger

Growth and Prosperity Directorate

Southampton City Council

Telephone:  023 8254 5069/07787 697306″

Email:dawn.bannatyne@southampton.gov.uk