Broadfield Park pond an "absolute disgrace"

Photo: Jackie Kershaw

Broadfield Park Pond

The pond in Broadfield Park is an absolute disgrace, says Jackie Kershaw who was recently in the park.

The pond area, which was reportedly cleared by the council last year, is currently over grown with weeds, nettles, reeds and thistles.

Jackie said: “The place is an absolute disgrace. There is a lovely sign telling us all about the pond and as soon as you try and take a look you are confronted with five foot high weeds and mud.”

When Jackie paid a visit to the park on Tuesday 15 July, she was greeted by a single lonesome duckling. She added: “That poor duckling thrashing its beak in the mud in search of water was heartbreaking. No idea what happened to its parents and siblings but they sure as hell aren’t there.”

Duckling thrashing its beak in the mud in search of water in Broadfield Park pond
Photo: Jackie Kershaw

The footpath providing access to the pond area was also criticised with Jackie stating, “we found the pond after fighting our way through the footpath which was hidden by nettles and thistles.”

The footpath to the pond in Broadfield Park overgrown with nettles and thistles
Photo: Jackie Kershaw

Mark Widdup, Director for Economy and Environment, at Rochdale Council said: “Grounds maintenance staff have been asked to clear the path to ensure it is useable, so people can once again enjoy the wildlife there.

“The pond itself is managed on a regular basis to maximise the habitat to increase the wildlife that use it. Further work to the pond is planned again this autumn. Work is carried out by a park ranger and Green Volunteers, who work on park and countryside improvement projects across the borough.”

If anyone is interested in joining the Green Volunteers, then contact Eleanor Sherwin:

eleanor.sherwin@rochdale.gov.uk
01706 922058