In 2016 we were lucky enough to be voted the top award of £12,000 by customers of Tesco superstore in Burgess Hill, out of three applicants selected by Head Office. “Bags of Help” uses the near-astronomical number of 5p Tesco carrier bag charges to provide funding for conservation and other projects of benefit to the local community. Here is our project, which was completed by winter 2016 – 2017.

Community Wildlife Pond:

Why was this project needed?

No sunlight reached this pond due to overhanging trees. During most of the year it holds very little water, only decaying leaves and mud, so there’s not much wildlife. The whole site was completely overgrown and had become an eyesore. We have made it both a thriving wildlife pond and a tranquil place for local people to enjoy.

What did we do?

After an ecologist’s survey, all undergrowth was cleared to provide access. Overhanging branches were removed and the pond dredged, with cut branches stacked to retain the silt on the small island. A timber dipping platform with lockable gate was built on piles, with deer fencing round the pond – required for safety reasons as the pond is not visible from the footpath. Two benches overlook the area, with an I D board for use during pond dipping by local children’s groups.

Where is it?

In Hammonds Ridge Meadows, south of Jane Murray Way, opposite the Burgess Hill Tesco superstore, overlooking the South Downs.

How was the money spent?

Ecologist’s surveys.

Tree surgery.

Dredging with excavator.

Building the dipping platform.

Supplying two benches.

Supplying pond species I D board.

Installing gate and fencing.