CAMPAIGNERS have reached their £2,000 target to protect an ancient five-acre lake from a nearby housing development.

Concerns were raised about the future of Brantham Decoy Pond as run-off water from a 288-home development could contaminate the lake and cause “considerable harm”.

David Fisk, a resident, applied to get the lake listed as a protected monument in the National Heritage list for England, but wanted to fast track the application, which is set to cost about £2,000.

He set up a Just Giving page about a month ago, and has now managed to reach the target amount thanks to donations.

He said: “I am quite astonished we could raise all of this money in a month.

“I am now waiting to hear from English Heritage about fast tracking the application.”

If approved, an extension to the current Suffolk Coasts and Heaths area of outstanding natural beauty would cover the lake, but Mr Fisk said that protection is limited.

Mr Fisk added: “The pond has been there for hundreds of years and it’s always been a spot for nature.

“Most people have known about it all of their lives.

“It’s not just a fishing pond, it’s a lovely place to visit.

“There are a whole range of creatures which depend on the pond.”

The lake is used by a varied species of birds, bats, and small mammals.

It is also used by fisherman, walkers, residents and visitors.

A spokesman for Taylor Wimpey, the developer behind the new homes, said: “Following an assessment of the existing drainage system, which includes the Decoy Pond, the Lead Local Flood Authority (LLFA) requested that a small part of the site still drain into the Decoy Pond to ensure the water level is maintained.

“The new strategy outlines that drainage entering the Decoy Pond will come from roofs and private driveways, and will be transported through open ditches to provide a level of treatment before entering the pond.”

The detailed development plans for the site were given the go-ahead in June.

To donate or find out more details about the campaign visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/david-fisk.