Contractors have been appointed to repair the dried-up duck ponds in Bath’s Royal Victoria Park, aiming to restore them to their former water-filled state. The large duck pond in the park has increasingly dried out during summer months, a situation the council attributes to climate change. The pond, which has not had a dedicated water supply for several years, now depends solely on rainfall to fill it. However, recent hot and dry summers have resulted in the pond drying up.
Bath and North East Somerset Council has described the appointment of contractors for the removal of silt and the replacement of the pond’s damaged liner as a “significant milestone” in the restoration project. Oli Henman, the council cabinet member responsible for the initiative, expressed enthusiasm about this progress. He stated, “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.”
Preliminary investigations have identified several potential sources of water to supply the ponds once repairs are complete. The council reported that the first phase of the project, estimating the volume of water required to keep the ponds full throughout the year, has already been completed.
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In addition to long-term solutions, temporary measures to increase water levels have been considered. These include diverting rainwater from the roof of the Temple of Minerva and utilising the stream running through the Great Dell, the park’s woodland glade.
Historically, the ponds were fed by the Georgian Springs. However, after these springs deteriorated and caused flooding to nearby homes, the water supply was rerouted. The council has ruled out the use of water tanks to refill the ponds, deeming it an overly costly and wasteful option. Similarly, drawing water from the River Avon has been dismissed due to potential harm to the pond’s delicate ecosystem.
A restoration project valued at £75,000 was announced in 2023, but progress was delayed when the complexity of the work became apparent. The council anticipates that the project will not be completed until at least next year.
Royal Victoria Park holds historic significance; it was opened in 1830 by an 11-year-old Princess Victoria, who later became Queen. Local legend recounts that an incident during her visit-where a rude remark was made about her ankles-led to her avoiding the city throughout her 64-year reign. Despite this, the park remains a cherished local destination.