Drought Puts Wildlife at Risk — New Pond Offers Lifeline in Brenchley Gardens

Kent's prevailing hot, dry conditions are putting real pressure on local wildlife. As ponds, ditches and streams dry up across the borough, mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates are increasingly struggling to find accessible clean water to drink, bathe, and even breed in. For many urban species, a single remaining water source can be the difference between survival and death during a drought.

In response, Lib Dem Councillors Clive English and Tony Harwood have brought a new wildlife pond to Brenchley Gardens, in the heart of Maidstone town centre — restoring a much-loved feature that was inexplicably filled in back in the late 1980s. It's the result of years of persistent campaigning by the two councillors to see it replaced.

Since the pond was filled, birds and small mammals have already been spotted drinking from it — proof of just how quickly wildlife responds when given the chance.

Clive and Tony are now urging residents and gardeners across Maidstone to take similar action and consider creating a pond of their own, however small. Even a modest container pond can provide a vital drinking and bathing spot for garden wildlife during dry spells, while also becoming a fascinating habitat in its own right.

Clive English said: 

"The prevailing drought conditions make it more important than ever that we restore our lost ponds to the landscape, both urban and rural. Every garden pond we create is a small but real act of climate resilience."

Tony Harwood added: 

"As soon as the restored pond was filled, birds and small mammals could be seen drinking from the new wildlife pond. It's a reminder of how quickly nature responds when you give it the chance."