It is wonderful to see the Doctors Pond refilling (as demonstrated in the photo) as the work to desilt the pond and associated remedial works have been completed.
By the time that all the silt has been disposed of, it is estimated that in excess of 1900 cubic metres of capacity has been added to the pond. To date, 109 lorries have ferried silt away and this will continue into next week.
The fencing has continued to be removed during the week as our contractor returns more areas to the public.
Repairs to public areas damaged during the works are in progress, with new paths and hardstandings in construction. Next week the levels on the Downs will be restored, grass areas seeded and the memorial benches re-installed.
The Town Council was pleased to see 42 residents at their meeting on Monday and were grateful to those that took the time to express their thoughts on this project. At the extra-ordinary Full Council meeting on Monday members voted:
- to appoint an independent specialist to assess the work undertaken by the contractor at the Doctors Pond, to provide independent reassurance
- to appoint a landscaping consultant to advise the Town Council on the restoration of the Downs to provide independent reassurance
The independent specialist and landscaping consultant have both attended on site with the Town Clerk and the Operations Manager, and spoken with the site manager.
We are pleased to report that both are happy with the work undertaken by the contractor and will be providing written reports confirming their findings in due course.