Contractors have been appointed to repair the dried-up duck ponds in Bath’s Royal Victoria Park, initiating efforts to restore this cherished feature to its former state.
The large duck pond in the park has been drying up over recent summers, a change the council attributes to climate change. The pond no longer receives a dedicated water supply, relying solely on rainwater to fill it. However, the prolonged hot and dry conditions experienced in recent years have led to it drying out entirely during the summer months.
Bath and North East Somerset Council has described the appointment of contractors to remove silt and replace the ponds' damaged liner as a “significant milestone” in the restoration project. Oli Henman, the council cabinet member responsible, said: “It’s fantastic to see this project moving forward. Appointing a contractor to remove the silt and install the liner marks a significant milestone towards breathing new life into the ponds. These are the steps needed to prepare the ponds while we continue to develop a sustainable long-term water supply to protect and enhance them for generations to come.”
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Early investigations have identified several potential water sources to keep the ponds filled once repairs are complete. The council has already completed the initial phase of the project, estimating the volume of water required to maintain the ponds year-round.
Temporary solutions are also under consideration, including diverting rainwater from the roof of the Temple of Minerva or making use of the nearby stream found at the edge of the Great Dell, a magical woodland glade within Royal Victoria Park.
Historically, the ponds were fed by the Georgian Springs. These springs deteriorated over time and caused flooding to nearby homes, leading to the water being redirected away from the pond. The council has ruled out using water tanks to refill the pond due to cost concerns and viewing it as a “frivolous use of water.” Similarly, sourcing water from the River Avon is not considered suitable, as it could harm the delicate pond ecosystem.
The £75,000 restoration project was announced in 2023 but has faced delays, as the work has proven to be more complicated than initially anticipated. Completion is now expected no earlier than next year.
Royal Victoria Park has a notable history, having been opened in 1830 by an 11-year-old Princess Victoria, who later became Queen. Local legend holds that during her only visit to Bath, a rude comment about her ankles was made, which purportedly led her to avoid the city throughout her 64-year reign.