Author: News Team 1

We have been informed by Harrow Council of the following works.

Introduction

Funding has now been approved to carry out essential repair works at Pinner Memorial Park Pond. These works will address a leak in the pond and restore it for long-term community use and wildlife health.

While the work is underway, we will also be de-silting (sometimes referred to as dredging) the pond. This will improve water quality, increase the pond’s depth, and create a healthier environment for fish, birds and other wildlife.

Due to the nesting season for local birds, the works are expected to start in October.

Why Is This Needed?

The pond has developed a leak that requires significant repair. Without intervention, water levels will continue to drop and require topping up which is wasting water and finance and will affect both the park’s appearance and the habitats that depend on it.

The problem became more apparent following the recent capital improvement works in the playground, which highlighted the extent of the leak and prompted us to bring forward this intervention sooner than originally planned.

Years of natural silt build-up have also reduced the pond’s depth and water quality. Removing this silt will:

• Improve water quality by reducing nutrient build-up that can cause algae.

• Restore pond depth, helping it hold water more effectively and reducing future flooding risks.

• Support wildlife, providing better habitats for fish, waterfowl and other species.

• Enhance the park’s appearance, making it a more enjoyable space for residents and visitors.

What Will Happen

The works will be carried out in carefully planned stages to ensure the pond is repaired properly while keeping wildlife and visitors safe.

First, contractors will set up the site, fencing the pond area and creating safe access routes. The pond will then be gently drained into the existing drainage system. If any fish or other water animals are found, they will be kept safe, with our contractors responsible for their care throughout the project.

This includes the much-loved waterfowl in the park, which we know residents value. All species will benefit from the works, as the restored pond will provide a healthier and more sustainable environment.

Next, de-silting (dredging) will remove the silt from the pond bed. The silt will be dewatered on site and stored temporarily on the adjacent lawn, which will be fully restored and improved after the works. De-silting will enhance water quality, restore depth, and make the pond a better habitat for wildlife.

The existing liner will be inspected and most likely a new self-sealing clay bentonite liner will be installed to make the pond watertight, and rebuilding walls and edges.

Finally, the surrounding area will be restored. Clean material will be replaced, paths resurfaced where needed, and the lawn repaired following silt storage. Once complete, the pond area will be cleared and reopened for everyone to enjoy.

Timeline

• The contractors are expected to start site set up the week of the 22nd of September.

• Completion –it is expected to last 10 weeks meaning works will be completed by end of November 2025.

Impact on Residents

Contractors will access the site via the West End Lane car park and will fence off the pond area for safety. Some paths near the pond will be temporarily closed, but residents will still be able to walk around the park and enjoy other areas.

The silt removed from the pond will be stored on the grassed area beside the site, and the lawn will be improved as part of the restoration. Access across the car park to the work site will be carefully managed by a banksman to ensure safe movements. Every effort will be made to minimise disruption while keeping the park accessible.

For the complete story visit Pinner Memorial Park – Works.