Pond Life

28/04/08 — published by Mikki Thomas

The coming months will see some subtle changes made to the Parish Council-owned pond in Newport Road, Woolstone. For some residents the pond remains an undiscovered treasure, but those familiar with the site will know that the pond is located opposite the Barge Inn public house.

Improvements are being made to the pond that will enhance the area as a wildlife haven, and at the same time will increase the enjoyment of the pond for residents as they pass by.  The Parish Council, after having commissioned an ecology report, has now employed a contractor to maintain the pond.  Mindful of the need to maintain the ecological balance of the area, the work that commenced earlier this year is part of a longer five-year restoration plan.

Initial steps include the removal of various items of rubbish that now call the pond home, however, a quantity of dead wood will be retained in the area to allow species such as dragonflies to flourish. The willow trees that surround the pond have been pollarded and small areas of scrub removed, to increase light levels in the pond which is currently heavily shaded.  It is hoped that this step will encourage an increase in aquatic vegetation; additional planting is also being considered.  The amount of reed in the pond has also been reduced, opening up the area and providing improved viewing points.