Landlord pools resources to transform medieval pond

22 July 2010

A Runcorn pond that dates back as far as the Middle Ages has been transformed from a dumping ground to a nature reserve, thanks to social landlord Riverside.  Riverside has worked with landscape architects at Mouchel's 2020 Knowsley office and Grace Landscapes to transform the dilapidated Gorsewood Pond in Murdishaw to a wildlife haven and community resource for local children and residents to enjoy.

The project is part of a wider scheme to develop green spaces in the North West and beyond, thanks to a successful bid by landlords Riverside, Places for People and Peabody who have secured £15,669,990 from the Big Lottery Fund's Changing Spaces programme.

Riverside earmarked £127,522 for the project - of this £75,872 is from the Big Lottery Fund, and £51,650 from Riverside's regeneration budget - to rejuvenate the pond and surrounding area in Runcorn.  Landscape architects from Mouchel designed and implemented the project, including consultation with children from neighbouring Gorsewood Primary School.

2020 Knowsley's Habitat Manager Frank Jones said: "For a small area of woodland it is very diverse, with many ancient species.  We have managed to retain and enhance this diversity along with the existing aquatic species and it associated wildlife in the pond consisting of the Moorhen and Mallard families.  Now we hope to add to it."

Children from the school joined head teachers from other local schools, Riverside, Mouchel and other partners to celebrate the launch of the pond. 

Chris Frazer, Riverside's neighbourhood manager said:  "Everyone was surprised to see the renovated pond, which was once a blot on the landscape.  People used to dump waste and it became overgrown and stagnant. In its current state it will now attract more wildlife and the new seating and improved landscaping means that everyone can enjoy the space."

Local school children can now use the pond for ecological study, to enhance studies in science and the environment