It is a little over two months since the official opening of the restored pond. Unfortunately, shortly after this we noticed the water level starting to fall. A leak was suspected and the decision was taken to wait and see at what point the level would stabilise. Following an agonising wait the level stabilised at around 3 feet but due to the sloping nature of the bed of the pond the appearance was of an almost empty pond.
A small fissure was found in the clay lining and this was repaired by localised repuddling. To ensure that any other potential leaks would be sealed we spread a layer of granular bentonite, a type of clay, over the bed and banks of the pond and puddled this in. Thanks to Guy and Lisa we have been able to install a metered water supply from the Unicorn’s Head and have been refilling the pond and adding further bentonite powder as the level has risen. After each addition of bentonite we have stopped the filling and monitored the water level to ensure that no leaks were present. To date none have been found so the refilling as continued and the pond is looking more as it should do.
In addition to this Naturescape have completed the planting of the hedging plants on the banks and the interpretation panel has been erected.
Our contractor has provided a breakdown of where he spent money to obtain goods and services. Of the total amount 17% was spent within a 1 mile radius of Langar, 38% within 1 to 5 miles and 12% within 5 to 10 miles. This money was spent on plant hire, transport, timber, turf, fuel, top soil, plants and planting, tarmac, concrete, tool hire, sand, ballast, storage and security fencing. In addition, whilst working on the project, he developed a taste for Colston Bassett Stilton Cheese and purchased large quantitities which indirectly helped local farmers who provide the milk!
Of the material removed during the excavation of the pond 320 tonnes were used on the A46, 100 tonnes were delivered to a local farmer for use as ballast on tracks etc and only 40 tonnes went to landfill.
As you will see from the above the Local Improvement Scheme has not only benefitted us as a village but also many local businesses which need all the support they can be given during these difficult times.
Spring will see the planting of the waterside plants and the pond will then be allowed to mature. We have also opened discussions with Everards with a view to us harvesting rainwater from the roof of the Unicorn’s Head to top up the pond.
The pond is being checked on a regular basis with a formal audit taking place each month to ensure that everything is in order. To date, apart from the water level, nothing has been amiss with pond and surroundings although it has been disappointing to find dog mess on the turfed area on several occasions. This has been removed as it is unpleasant in addition to being a health hazard.
The Langar Village Pond Trust is very grateful for all the help and encouragement it has received over the last year and the many positive comments that have been made regarding the pond’s restoration. With a membership at over 150 people we are in a strong position to maintain the pond as an assett for the village but there is always room for more members!
