New measures — including the installation of a fountain — are being introduced to improve the health and quality of Sidney Park pond, which has become a hotspot for fly-tipping and wildlife injuries.
Concerns have been raised for some time about the condition of the water, with poor oxygen levels and built-up dirt affecting local wildlife. On one occasion, North East Lincolnshire Council removed more than a tonne of waste from the pond. There have also been repeated reports of dead fish and ducks and other birds becoming trapped in discarded fishing lines and hooks.
The pond currently has no fountain, causing debris and rubbish to gather around the edges and create hazards.
This is now set to change, with a new fountain due to be installed in the coming weeks. Local councillors are also continuing to push for new CCTV to cover the area, both to deter fly-tipping and to help the council take action against offenders.
The announcement has been welcomed and met with joy from councillors and local wildlife and nature campaigners.
Councillor Emma Clough, leader of the NEL Labour Group, said: “Local councillors in Sidney Sussex are delighted that we have finally secured a fountain for the pond in Sidney Park. This has been a real team effort and we are grateful to everyone who has supported the project. CCTV will take a little longer to resolve, but we are continuing to look carefully at all the options available to us.”
Councillor Clough added that it will “improve the health of the pond, support wildlife and fish, and make the park an even more attractive place for local families to enjoy.”
James Elliot — better known locally as the Canoe River Cleaner — has spent years improving local waterways and campaigning for better environmental conditions across the borough, including at Sidney Park Pond.
Responding to the announcement, he said: “I’m really encouraged by the announcement of a fountain for Sidney Park. These ornamental ponds typically have low oxygen levels, not helped by decomposing leaf litter and food waste entering the water, coupled with very little if any oxygenating plants. It generally makes for quite a poor habitat for any species that call it home. A fountain will improve this, especially as it’s not a particularly deep pond. It will also add aesthetic value as the park is actually really lovely.”
The fountain is expected to be installed within the next few weeks.
Part of the Gi Grimsby News team since 2020.