Royal Victoria Park ponds refill plan set to be tested this summer

Bath & North East Somerset Council is set to test temporary measures this summer to help restore water levels in the ponds at Royal Victoria Park while longer-term plans are developed.

The dried out pond in Royal Victoria Park

The work follows an initial phase of feasibility studies carried out by the council and Wessex Water, which began in summer 2025 and looked at possible future water sources.

As part of the next stage, the council will continue clearing silt and debris from the ponds, examine how badly the liner is leaking and begin repair work.

A number of interim options to raise water levels are also due to be explored.

These include diverting rainwater from the roof of the Temple of Minerva and from the stream at the edge of the Great Dell. The cascade leading from the Botanic Garden is also set to be cleaned and repaired.

The council says its long-term goal is to restore a regular water supply, creating the chance to rethink how the ponds fit into the wider park, including their role in the landscape, ecology and biodiversity of the area.

Councillor Oli Henman, cabinet project lead for climate change, said: “Royal Victoria Park is one of Bath’s most treasured green spaces. Restoring a sustainable water supply and reimagining how the ponds sit within the park is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to preserve this habitat for the future.

“The interim measures we’ll be carrying out at the ponds this summer aim to stabilise the ponds and identify a long-term water supply.

“By working closely with Wessex Water, we’re uncovering practical, climate-resilient solutions that make best use of natural water sources and rainfall.

“This is a challenging context made worse by climate change and will take some time to rectify.

“We are approaching the work in phases to secure value for money and will likely need additional external funding for later stages.

“Once a consistent mix of water sources has been identified, we plan to ask our communities to help us shape the future of the ponds and the role they play within the whole park.”

Paul Saynor, water supply technical director at Wessex Water, said: “By working in partnership we have made some really good progress in investigating a sustainable water supply to the ponds.

“This is an important step in helping the council restore this historical amenity for local residents and visitors.”

The council said maintaining water levels has been difficult for several years after the Georgian-era spring mains deteriorated and water was diverted because of flood risks to nearby properties.

Work will begin once conditions are dry enough, with further monitoring due to assess reliable sources of water to help top up the ponds during dry summers.

Longer-term proposals will depend on the results of this summer’s work and on affordability, with the council saying it expects to seek outside funding for later phases.

New landscaping and habitat creation around the ponds may also be considered as part of wider improvements to the area.