We formed a community group to reclaim a sadly neglected pond and green space on a housing estate and return it a thing of beauty which is safe and can be enjoyed and appreciated by all members of the community!
The project will bring an area that can be appreciated by residents of all ages and make the area feel loved and cared for once again. Since the project started we have already seen an increase in young people using the green area to play ball and older members of the community using the newly laid path for walks. The opportunity to meet with others ,we are hoping ,will improve both the physical , mental health and wellbeing for people of all ages. We also aim to encourage wildlife back to both the pond the surrounding area.
We have made good progress but now require funding to move forward with the more costly elements of the project...a new fence around the pond for safety reasons being one!
Progress can be seen on the Facebook page created by a
community member.
What we'll deliver:
- New fence around the boundary of the pond
- Create a duck habitat to encourage nesting pairs
- Complete works on trees surrounding the pond and green space which have become very overgrown-tree specialist required
- Bug house
- Pond dredging required as large amount of silt and removal of reeds required
- Planting on pond boundaries
- Signage detailing wildlife in and around the pond
Why it's a great idea:
For residents living on the estate the project will bring a sense of pride as well as providing an enjoyable and safe space for residents of all ages to enjoy.
In time and with the correct signage we are hoping that there will be an educational opportunity for residents to be able to identify wildlife and learn more about the environment.
Locally, green spaces are sadly being reduced due to an increase in local building projects, we feel it is important for the ponds and gardens that exist within the borough to be cared for and therefore appreciated, respected and available to all to be enjoyed.
The importance of accessing areas such as this has been recognised to have a positive impact on mental health and wellbeing. Before the project started the area was inaccessible due to fallen trees , no paths and the pond was full of rubbish and trees had begun to seed in it significantly reducing the water level...the area has improved, hence being used ,but we have a long way to go!!
Steps to get it done:
- dredging the pond
- engaging with fencing company
- continue with community days
