The Parish Council is aware of residents’ concerns about the current condition of Fairfield Pond and is actively looking into it.
The prolonged dry and exceptionally hot weather has left the pond with very low water levels and exposed silt and debris. According to Essex Wildlife Trust, this is unfortunately becoming increasingly common across the region, with many ponds experiencing significant drawdown during drought conditions. Seasonal drying and exposed muddy margins can also be a natural and important part of a pond’s ecology.
We are therefore taking advice before deciding what work is appropriate. We are currently:
• Consulting Essex Wildlife Trust and the Environment Agency and seeking advice from the local Angling Club
• Considering quotes for replacing the wooden timbers along the bank (skate park side), which have been deteriorating
• Obtaining quotations for removing accumulated debris/rubbish
Our Facilities Committee will hold an Extraordinary Meeting on 20 August, when the pond will be discussed and the next steps decided. We have been advised by Essex Wildlife Trust that, if desilting is considered appropriate, this would be better undertaken from late September/early October onwards.
We really appreciate everyone’s concern for the pond and the many offers of help. For health & safety reasons, we are unfortunately UNABLE to accept offers from volunteers to remove silt/debris. However, if you are a local BUSINESSES with the appropriate equipment and experience to remove silt from ponds and may be able to assist or provide a quotation, please get in touch at clerk@ingatestone-fryerningpc.gov.uk
Please note that, although the water level is very low, there is still water present and the pond may be considerably deeper in places than it appears, with soft slippery silt, unstable ground and hidden debris. There are also ecological considerations about what should and should not be disturbed, as well as the quality of water.
Please DO NOT THROW RUBBISH in the pond and DO NOT ENTER the pond to remove silt/debris.
Thank you for your understanding and continued care for Fairfield Pond. We will keep residents updated following the Committee’s meeting and once we have considered the available advice and options
