LOCATION:
The village green in Hastingleigh

DATE:
2011

WHAT WE DID:
The village pond in the lovely downland village of Hastingleigh needed some TLC. After consultation with the Parish Council it was decided to make improvements to the pond and the area around it to create a pleasant green space and focal point for the village. We desilted the pond and cut back some nearby trees to reduce shading and leaf fall – this would also stimulate plant growth in the pond. To enhance the community use of the area we commissioned an interpretation panel about the history and wildlife of the parish and a sculptural bench. We planted wildflowers and repaired railings around the area. The work was funded by Big Lottery Fund and a KCC Member grant from Andrew Wickham.

BENEFITS:
The pond has been enhanced for wildlife, with increased plant diversity, and will be a better habitat for amphibians, birds and aquatic invertebrates. The local community benefit from the visual and amenity improvements, and we hope that the pond is now somewhere people go and sit to enjoy wildlife and be close to nature.

PARTNERSHIP:
Hastingleigh Parish Council, Big Lottery Fund and KCC.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Hastingleigh interpretation panel (PDF 2MB)

Photo gallery