A new lease of life for pond

A NEW initiative has been set up in a bid to regenerate what was once a thriving community hub.

Plans to improve the rundown Mill Pond in Seal were revealed during the Greatness Residents' Association annual general meeting last week. An appeal was made to the community for their suggestions.

Once a thriving local silk mill and idyllic boating and swimming location, the pond is now overgrown, fenced off and strewn with rubbish. Silt, which has been washed into the pond from the road, is also a problem.

Secretary of the Greatness Residents' Association Karen Hilson said she would like to see work on the pond start next spring.

An application for lottery funding will be filed when a clear plan has been decided.

She said: "The pond has been overgrown for many, many years. We would like to see it as a place that could once again be central to our community spirit and part of the environment.

"The pond will provide a facility for all members of the community, whatever their age, interest or background. Younger members will be able to feed the ducks and fish, whilst other members can use it as a pleasant place to sit, think and observe the wildlife, flowers and plants."

Suggestions include a duck feeding platform, wheelchair and pushchair access and involvement of the local scouts or Wildernesse School.

Mrs Hilson is also looking for local people who would like to train as wardens to maintain the pond once it has been transformed. Thames Water has repaired sewage drains and Kent Highways has promised to deal with the oil and silt problem.

Both Sevenoaks District Council and Sevenoaks Town Council are in full support. District council spokesman Daniel Whitmarsh said: "We are always keen to support people when they improve their neighbourhood."