5 days ago
'We recognise how important it is to residents' - revamp for York village asset
A MUCH-LOVED village pond is set to get a makeover.
Wigginton Parish Council says work will soon begin on a major renovation project at Wigginton Pond.
They say the pond will be carefully restored and improved in a scheme designed to increase biodiversity and ensure it remains healthy and sustainable for many years to come.
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Cllr John Gates, chair of Wigginton Parish Council, said: "We recognise how important the pond is to residents and local wildlife.
"This renovation is not just about preserving a community feature but about enhancing it so that future generations can enjoy it too.
"We're committed to working in an environmentally responsible way and have consulted with a local specialist company and other experts to ensure the best outcomes for biodiversity.
"This project marks a positive step towards improving green spaces in Wigginton and ensuring they continue to benefit both people and nature."
Wigginton pond is set to be revamped (Image: Supplied) Following an ecological survey commissioned by the parish council, it was found that the current condition of the pond lacks the necessary habitats to support a thriving aquatic ecosystem.
The survey identified poor water quality, limited aquatic vegetation, and eroded pond banks as key challenges that need addressing.
In response, the parish council has developed a comprehensive renovation plan. The project will involve temporarily draining the pond to allow essential structural work to be carried out. The banks will be reinforced to prevent future erosion and improve stability, creating a safer and more sustainable environment for wildlife and visitors alike.
Once the structural improvements are complete, the pond will be gradually refilled and carefully replanted with a range of native aquatic and marginal plants. These have been selected to encourage a diverse array of wildlife, including amphibians, insects, and birds, helping to restore the pond's role as a vital local habitat.
The council says work is expected to begin later this month and will take several weeks to complete.
The parish council say they welcome community involvement and will be looking for volunteers to help with planting and educational events following the restoration.
An artist's impression painted by local watercolour artist Sue Clayton of what the new-look pond will be like (Image: Sue Clayton)
