Wiltshire Wildlife Trust will commence work on a redesign project for Trowbridge Town Pond, located in the Town Park. This project is part of the ongoing 5-year ABBA (A Better Biss Approach) initiative aimed at enhancing the biodiversity and public amenity of the River Biss and its surrounding areas.
In 2021 Wiltshire Wildlife Trust collaborated with Trowbridge Town Council to design improvements for the Town Pond and adjacent Paxcroft Brook. A survey revealed that the pond lacked biodiversity and was dominated by ducks and rats. Since then, the pond’s water levels have dropped and it has naturally evolved into a wetland area, a significant improvement on the previous stagnant water. Recognising this positive change, Trowbridge Town Council have secured funding to engage Wiltshire Wildlife Trust to develop a design to enhance wetland vegetation and naturalised the Paxcroft Brook stream. The stream will resemble a more natural state by flowing through the middle of the existing pond area, with more gently sloping banks to provide a habitat for fish, invertebrates, and other aquatic life.
The project aims to revitalise the Town Park by increasing biodiversity and creating a thriving green and blue space for residents and visitors alike. By enhancing connections to the River Biss and Paxcroft Brook, the project will open up the area, improving access and creating a more natural flow between the park and the surrounding waterways. This transformation will not only boost the ecological value of the park but also enhance its recreational potential, offering improved opportunities for leisure and enjoyment.
Alice Eley, Head of Freshwater at Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, said
“We are thrilled to be partnering with Trowbridge Town Council again on this exciting project. The Town Pond is a hidden gem in Trowbridge, and we believe it has the potential to become a thriving wetland habitat that will enrich the lives of both local wildlife and the community. We are eager to see the continued positive impact this transformation will have on the biodiversity of the area, as well as the increased enjoyment and appreciation residents will have for this revitalised green space”
Cllr Stewart Palmen, Leader of Trowbridge Town Council said:
“The town council is very pleased to be working in partnership with Wiltshire Wildlife Trust to help develop this important area of Trowbridge Park into an improved biodiverse habitat as part of the council’s strategy to make Trowbridge Greener.”
Wiltshire Wildlife Trust will continue to provide updates on the progress of the Town Pond project. For further information on the A Better Biss Approach, please visit https://www.wiltshirewildlife.org/better-biss-approach-ab