Video: Wildlife gets a boost at Burgess Hill beauty spot

A digger and a dumper truck from Ash Environmental did the dirty work, removing silt and decaying leaves over a foot deep.

The work was paid for in a joint initiative by Members of the Friends of Burgess Hill Green Circle Network and Mid Sussex District Council.

Ash Environmental provided a purpose-built dipping platform, which was paid for by Burgess Hill District Lions Club.

Everyone involved in the project gathered for the official opening ceremony on Saturday.

Dominic Moore, who chairs the Friends of Burgess Hill Green Circle Network, said: “The build-up of silt had seriously inhibited the presence of wildlife and we had overhanging branches removed to admit more sunlight.

The rain and snow have been filling up the pond again in time for frogs to spawn.

“Bedelands now has the best wildlife pond on public land in Burgess Hill and it is also the only one with a dipping platform.”

The pond is accessed by a locked gate and is fenced to prevent damage by dogs.

Dominic hopes school and youth groups will make use of the pond at no cost but prior booking is required so that one of the Friends can attend with a key to open the gate and assist if necessary.

Bookings are made by ringing Mary Smith, on 01444 242667 or Dominic Moore on 01444 241837. You can also leave a message.

We have a picture spread from the opening in this week’s Mid Sussex Times, which is out on Thursday, February 16.