Silt issue to be sorted at Sandford Millennium Green Pond

SANDFORD Millennium Green Pond is a familiar place to many local residents.

Often referred to as ‘Sandford Lake’ by Kirtonians, it was dug out and lined with clay 26 years ago.

Fed by the stream that flows across the Green, it is self-regulating.

Di Martin from Sandford Millennium Green management group, explained: “Over the years, the lake has been slowly silting up, particularly over the last few winters, when we have experienced torrential rain and flooding due to climate change.

“If we did nothing, we would soon have no pond. Although this project will cost several thousands of pounds, the Green management committee felt it was important that we save the pond.”

She explained that the group has embarked upon Phase 1 of a restoration project.

Di added: “Some of the vegetation has been cleared and the pond is being drained by blocking up the inlet pipe and lowering the outlet pipe.

“Now we need to allow the silt, that has been choking the pond, to dry out. This gradual process will take several weeks, but the hot, dry weather is perfect for this.

“Hopefully the tiny creatures that live in the pond will be able to find moist spots to retreat to and then return when we gradually refill the pond. Towards the end of August, the silt will be removed and the pond refilled.”

She added that the group had found an experienced digger driver who will be able to dig away the built up silt and not destroy the clay lining and that Steve McCullough will drive a dumper truck and deposit the silt in appropriate places on the Green.

She apologised that the Green will look a bit of a mess to begin with, but said it will recover over the winter and the pond that will continue to support wildlife and give pleasure to all who enjoy the beautiful Green.

Sandford Millennium Green is run by volunteers and relies on donations and fundraising events to cover costs which annually amount to around £1,500 depending how much repairs to the mower and the fencing cost. Saving the pond was not expected, so will be an additional cost of around £4,000. A donation would be much appreciated if you would like to support the group’s work.

It has a Just Giving Page (tinyurl.com/saveourpond), or you can make a Bank Transfer to Sandford Millennium Green Trust (Sort Code: 09 01 53; Account Number: 50483280).