Council to work with Wessex Water over park’s popular duck pond

Bath & North East Somerset Council has said it will work with Wessex Water to help secure the future of the popular duck pond in Bath’s Royal Victoria Park.

The dried-out pond in Royal Victoria Park

Maintaining water levels in the pond has been a challenge for several years.

The Georgian-era spring mains that supplied it became degraded and the water was re-routed, since it posed a flooding risk to nearby properties.

The pond has recently begun to refill from rainwater after drying out in hot, dry conditions this summer.

The council is now exploring options with Wessex Water to identify a longer-term water source for the pond.

There will be an opportunity for engagement with the public over the coming months to consider all options in line with the council’s Greener Places Plan.

Councillor Oli Henman, cabinet project lead for climate change, said: “The Royal Victoria Park pond is a valued asset that has been popular with residents and visitors for many years.

“The council is committed to working with Wessex Water to bring the pond back to life and ensure a long-term water supply.

Signs have been put up explaining the situation

“Like many people I enjoy spending time in Royal Victoria Park and have been saddened to see the challenging situation this year.

“We are at the beginning of the restoration process and plans are evolving based on expert advice, however we can state that the pond will not be left in its current condition.

“The council aims to create nature-rich areas across B&NES that communities connect with – so we’ll be asking for your feedback in the future on options to ensure a sustainable habitat for the pond that is better suited to future climate conditions.”

Paul Saynor, Water Production Director at Wessex Water, said: “While the pond’s water supply has never come from our network, we appreciate its importance to residents and wildlife.

“We’re more than happy to offer our expertise and remain committed to continue supporting B&NES Council in finding a solution.”

Updates on the pond will be available on a dedicated Royal Victoria Park Pond webpage on the council website.

A rally is planned on Sunday 21st September, highlighting concerns about the state of the pond.