Town Council Continues Commitment to Common Pond Improvements

Work is currently underway at the Common Pond site in Bellbanks Road, where Pond Warden Phil Hobden has begun clearing and preparing an area at the edge of the pond for reinstatement and planting. The works form part of ongoing improvement efforts to enhance the appearance and environmental quality of the site, with the cleared area set to be restored and planted with grass seed in the coming weeks.

In addition, following the installation of a new overflow pipe, areas of ground disturbed by machinery and trenching were reinstated with six tons of topsoil and approximately 8kg of grass seed late last year. Muddy grass behind the Maryan Alcove, which has been churned up by geese, will also be restored as part of the continuing maintenance programme.

These works follow the clearing of dead trees, removal of overgrown vegetation and general tidying of the pond’s two islands last spring – part of an ongoing major upgrade project at the Common Pond.

The next phase of improvement works at Hailsham Common Pond will commence soon and will see the continuation of overlaying the perimeter footpath with tarmac. The Town Council has allocated a portion of its Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funds towards completion of the project. The pond has already benefited from a newly resurfaced footpath surrounding most of the site, improving safety for visitors and providing smoother, more accessible access for disabled users.

Councillor Mary Laxton, Chair of the Assets Management Committee, said: “The Common Pond is our ‘jewel in the crown’ which is enjoyed by many residents, and we will continue to invest in the area so it remains a site our residents can be proud of. It’s been a very busy couple of years at the pond for the Town Council with much work undertaken.”

“Hailsham Town Council is responsible for a number of areas of public open space across the town. Our plan to undertake further improvements to the Common Pond site is just part of the Council’s vision to enhance its open spaces over the course of the next few years.”

With a good response from members of the public, many improvements to the Common Pond have been successfully carried out in recent years, thanks to the regular maintenance and monitoring of the site by Town Council staff.

Cllr Laxton added: “It’s always nice to receive positive feedback from people on the work undertaken by outdoor works staff at the Common Pond site and we look forward to the continuation of our work to maintain the area in the future, allowing pond life to flourish and ensuring residents and visitors can continue to enjoy this local beauty spot.”

Councillor Laxton also praised Pond Warden Phil Hobden, who was formally recognised in December last year for 30 years of outstanding service to the community. Mr Hobden received a Certificate of Long Service along with an accompanying gift from the Council, marking three decades of dedicated employment.

Mr Hobden has served as Pond Warden since the mid-1990s, undertaking vital duties to safeguard the environmental health, safety and long-term sustainability of one of Hailsham’s most valued natural landmarks. His responsibilities include regular pond maintenance, wildlife monitoring, community engagement and supporting conservation improvements across the site.

Reflecting on his 30-year milestone, Phil Hobden said: “I’ve always taken great pride in looking after the Common Pond and ensuring it remains a place the whole community can enjoy. It’s been a privilege to work here for so many years, and I’m grateful for the recognition. I look forward to continuing the work we’ve started and supporting the pond’s future.”

Residents are encouraged to visit the Common Pond and see first-hand the conservation and improvement work that has taken place, helping to ensure the site remains a treasured green space for the community.