For many years Wilmslow Scouts, under the guidance of Ian Ross, did their best to maintain the pond by the cricket pitch but their task became overwhelming.
However, following the completion of a restoration project - which included the removal of surrounding trees and a blanket of overgrowth - the pond has been restored and Wilmslow 6th Scouts needed little persuasion to help maintain the area again.
Ruth McNulty, Chair of Wilmslow Partnership commented "The key to the restoration was the felling of a number of sycamores taking light from the water and so inhibiting a natural habitat. Remaining water in the pond was tested in May 2105 and found to be sterile – indicating no active life. However, after clearance of the overgrowth, the removal of the trees and a substantial replanting, the pond is again a natural and pleasing feature.
"A pair of moorhens have taken up residence and are sitting on a nest of six eggs. They are timid and will flee the nest if overlooked.
"Spring flowering primroses and cowslips are fading and the marsh marigolds are past their best but we are watching the site for the emergence to the next flowers to bloom. Bird and bat boxes have been fixed in the surrounding trees."
The Partnership team is working with other parties to restore some seating from felled logs.
Ruth McNulty added "As a matter of interest, it is now understood that this was originally a Carter's pond in which the newly made wheels would have been submerged to swell the wood into their iron frame."
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