Duck Pond Upgrade progress update

The initial work has involved removing a large amount of debris and weeds from the pond that has accumulated over many years (approximately 550 cubic metres of material). Importantly, there will be a large amount of reusable, nutrient rich material removed from the pond that can be re-used on site.

Visitors may notice that this material is currently being dried out on the lawns near the pool. This is necessary to ensure the material dries and is well aerated so that it can be reused on site and to avoid placing it where it may put pressure on important tree roots. Any turf that is effected by this process will be restored at the end of the project.

This is the first step towards delivering a lovely, clean and healthy duck pond and allows the following improvements to then be made:

• Changes to the pond shape and edges to improve water quality and habitat
• Safer pond edges and improved sight lines into the pond.
• A new accessible loop path around the pond.
• Replacing the existing barbeque shelter with a new and accessible one.
• Relocating the arch swings as part of the associated play space upgrade.

Throughout the upgrade process, local ecologists have been appointed to oversee the management of wildlife that uses the pond. While most wildlife can be relocated into Popes Glen the turtles, which need ponds, will be relocated to the ponds in the nearby Rhododendron Gardens.

The island in the duck pond has been demolished and a new island will be constructed in a better location for water flow and water quality.

The old island was constructed with logs and tyres and was obviously a non-original addition to the pond. If you have any photos, or oral history of when this island was installed, we would love to hear from you!

As with the playspace work, the upgrade to the duck pond is scheduled to be finished by the end of September, as we start to head into the warmer months of the year.