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The climate in
Britain encompasses everything from heat waves to hurricanes - with plenty
of rain too. And when there's a sudden downpour in a place the size of Southampton Science Park, run-off from roofs, roads and car parks is very
rapid. It is essential to collect this storm water in balancing ponds,
before releasing it slowly into local watercourses.
However, balancing ponds can be attractive
as well as functional and here at Southampton Science Park we've chosen to give our three
balancing ponds something of a makeover:
The small pond, near University Parkway,
has been planted with bullrush, iris and other water-loving plants and has
now become a wildlife refuge. There is a thriving population of newts and
several dramatic species of dragonflies and damselflies. It is easily
accessible to walkers on the adjoining footpath.
The large new pond draining the Merck and
Fibercore sites, on the other hand, has steep sides and is not easily
accessible. It is being colonised naturally by alders and we are planning to
enhance this to blend the structure into the surrounding planted landscape
of trees and bushes.
The pond adjacent to the Chilworth Business
Incubator has also been transformed. Since this area is popular with
tenants, both as a picnic spot and as a meeting area on hot days, we have
incorporated a waterfall feature, some attractive planting and a levelling
device to ensure that the pond never goes dry. We've even installed a
floating duck refuge, since we regularly get visits from mallards.
So come rain or shine, the people and
wildlife of Southampton Science Park should all be well catered for. And judging by both
tenant and duck use, the scheme has been very successful!
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