Newark: Reed Pond in Lambley bought by community to protect for future generations

A pond has been bought by the community to protect it for future generations, writes Ellie Danemann.

Reed Pond and its surroundings of around five acres in Lambley is described as an area of natural beauty and a haven for wildlife.

It was put up for sale by Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, with protection from being sold off for development, because it could not afford to maintain the site going forward.

Lambley Parish Council bought it with help from fundraisers.

Council chairman Lawrence Milbourn said: “Reed Pond is an important green space in the heart of the village and the only way to retain it for use by the community was to purchase it.

“By doing so we have ensured that it will be there for future generations to enjoy.”

Residents had criticised the decision to sell the land that was originally donated to the trust by Mr and Mr Burks almost 20 years ago.

There was nothing preventing the trust from selling the land. However, villagers called it a betrayal to the community when the sale was originally advertised.

A Friends of Reed Pond group will be formed and volunteers are being invited to help create plans to make the most of the natural habitat.