FEARS are growing for the safety of wildlife at a Greenock beauty spot.

Concerned residents living near the dam at Murdieston Street have hit out after spotting owners allowing their dogs to clambour onto the island where swans are nesting.

Inverclyde Council recently lowered the water levels at the reservoir to allow for maintenance.

Now council officials have warned dog walkers that their pets should be kept on a leash in public parks.

One local man said: “The water levels are so low again that dogs are managing to get over to the island and disturb the birds.

“I was so concerned I said to one of the owners that they shouldn’t be allowing their dogs to do that.

“They could do great damage.

“We all like to look after the swans around here.

“I don’t know why the council lowers the waters at this time of year when the swans are nesting.

“In the past the wildlife people have had to come and move them for their own safety.” Repairs have caused problems for nesting swans in both the dam off Murdieston Street and the one next to Thom Street in the past.

A council spokesman said today: “The water level of the reservoir was lowered for routine maintenance however recent rainfall is starting to fill the reservoir back up again and it should return to normal soon.

“We have no plans to lower the level again in the near future unless another problem arises that needs attention.

“Dog owners should remember our park rules state that while dogs are in public parks they should be under close control or on a short lead to avoid any issues with local wildlife.”