Frogs and toads are returning to a newly restored wildlife pond in St Andrew’s Park, just weeks after volunteers completed a renovation project to help the pond spring back to life.
By mid-February, amphibians had begun to reappear, and by the end of the month, clusters of frogspawn were already visible – an encouraging sign that the habitat is recovering well.
The restoration was led by the Friends of St Andrew’s Park (FoSAP) and support from the community. The pond, originally dug in 1993, had deteriorated over time.
Damage to the liner caused water loss, while overgrown vegetation made the pond swampy and less suitable for wildlife. Although volunteers carried out routine maintenance, it became clear about two years ago that a full restoration was needed.
FoSAP members took initiative despite limited initial funding. A successful grant from the Veolia Environmental Trust covered most costs, and a community crowdfunder raised an additional £2,750. Work began in January under challenging weather conditions, but contractors persevered to complete the project.
“It was unbelievably rainy and muddy, but the contractors from Keystone just slogged through it They were brilliant,” says local mum Trucie Mitchell, who was part of the FoSAP pond project group.
The restoration process involved draining the pond and carefully moving wildlife out of the pond. It was then re-dug, fitted with a new liner, and refilled, creating a healthier environment for aquatic life. A new gate was also installed along the pond path as part of the first phase of improvements.
Volunteers are planning to add oxygenating plants, as well as marginal plants and bulbs around the pond to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. They also intend to build a “five-star” bug hotel to provide shelter for insects and small creatures, further boosting biodiversity.
The early return of wildlife highlights the success of the project and the impact of community effort. Volunteers have expressed gratitude for the support received and are pleased to see such positive results so quickly.
To celebrate the restoration, a Pond Re-opening Event will take place on Sunday May 3, from 10am to midday, weather permitting. Visitors can participate in a family-friendly workshop to help build the bug hotel and learn more about local wildlife.
In addition, FoSAP will host informal monthly park chats starting on Easter Sunday, offering residents a chance to connect, share ideas, and get involved.
FoSAP continues to contribute to the park through planting, a community garden, and community projects. As the pond continues to recover, visitors are encouraged to look out for more returning species, including dragonflies.
By Ailsa Marshall