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Historic Pond Dries Up: Village Battles Council Over Neglect
5 Aug
Summary
- Chain Pond, a historical landmark since 1874, completely dried up in July.
- Residents are providing water for wildlife, including a moorhen named Kevin.
- A petition signed by nearly 1,700 people urges council maintenance.
Chain Pond, a historical landmark in a Surrey village, completely dried up in July following exceptionally hot weather. Residents expressed deep concern for the local wildlife, with some leaving paddling pools filled with water for creatures like a male moorhen named Kevin and his offspring.
Locals are urging Reigate and Banstead Borough Council to undertake essential maintenance, such as desilting the pond and unblocking a crucial water inlet. The council stated they manage Chain Pond to support natural resilience and have noted that such ephemeral ponds are important habitats.
The pond, originally built in 1874, is described by the council as seasonal, with water levels naturally fluctuating. However, campaigners have observed a decline in water flow to the inlet over the past three years. This year's heatwaves caused the pond to dry up earlier and more completely than ever before.
A petition initiated by a local resident has garnered almost 1,700 signatures, demanding better maintenance, including checking for damage to the pond's clay lining. Councillor Nadean Moses acknowledged the situation and emphasized the council's work with steering and volunteer groups to manage the pond sustainably and protect the ecosystem.
