New viewing platform opens at Queen’s Park pond thanks to community partnership

Visitors to Queen’s Park can now enjoy improved access to nature following the completion of a new viewing platform at the park’s pond.

Thanks to Queen’s Park and Charminster Neighbourhood Forum who worked with Cllr Keddie to submit a bid supported by Cllr Sharon Carr-Brown, BCP Council were able to allocate Community Infrastructure Levy funding to get this project off the ground.

The new platform, made from recycled plastic with a wood-like effect, replaces the previous structure and is now open for the public to enjoy. These planks provide a sustainable alternative to traditional wood, reducing waste and contributing to a greener planet.

Cllr Alasdair Keddie, ward councillor for Queen’s Park, said: “This project is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when the council and local communities work together.

“The new platform not only enhances the visitor experience but also reflects our commitment to sustainability and improving access to green spaces. I’m incredibly proud of the collaboration with the Queen’s Park and Charminster Neighbourhood Forum, and I look forward to seeing residents and visitors enjoying the space."

The pond is currently at full water capacity. It is a valuable ecological and recreational asset that plays a vital role in supporting local biodiversity and offering residents meaningful opportunities to connect with nature.

The pond provides a rich habitat for birds such as the Little Egret, Heron, Mallard ducks, and breeding moorhens. It is also a home to dragonflies, and many smaller creatures that are essential to the wildlife food chain. Their presence enriches the park’s natural environment and creates opportunities for education, wildlife observation, and mental wellbeing.

Cllr Andy Hadley, Portfolio Holder for Environment added: “By enhancing the pond’s biodiversity, the space becomes even more attractive for outdoor recreation and community engagement - strengthening the bond between people and their local green spaces. Within our Nature Towns project, we are aiming to connect our greenspaces for people and nature, and this work is an important stepping stone.”

Regular maintenance is key to preserving the health of the pond’s ecosystem and ensuring it continues to benefit both wildlife and the wider community. BCP Council is working with the Neighbourhood Forum to identify funding opportunities for winter works, including ditch clearing and dredging, to increase capacity and improve flow into the pond in order to safeguard it into the summer months.