Chain Pond

Chain Pond, which is opposite Earlswood Common on the corner of Pendleton and Somerset Roads, is believed to be a former cart pond created before 1874. 

The formation of Chain Pond

Chain Pond relies on rain that falls directly onto the pond and flows off the highway surface and through nearby road gullies. The surface water is channelled into the pond through two inlets: one on Somerset Road and one at the rear of the pond.

As Chain Pond is small and relatively shallow, evaporation rates during warm, dry weather are likely to be higher than in deeper bodies of water. As warmer, drier summers become more frequent, Chain Pond is expected to be mainly seasonal (or ephemeral) - drying out in summer and refilling naturally during the wetter autumn and winter months.

The pond is lined with puddled clay: a traditional, environmentally friendly method in which clay is thoroughly compacted to remove air pockets and create a dense, durable, watertight seal. During prolonged warm and dry periods, clay can contract and cracks may form, which can lead to possible further water loss.

The impact of climate change

Many species that use temporary ponds can adapt to seasonal drying. Insects, amphibians and reptiles will seek shelter under tree roots, deadwood, rocks and scrub; whilst birds will migrate to other local water sources.

However, longer and more frequent dry periods can put additional pressure on wildlife, if ponds do not refill during the wetter months. If this is the case, wildlife will use nearby alternative habitats if available.

A specialist habitat

Seasonal (or ephemeral) ponds have important ecological value and contribute to local biodiversity. They provide:

• a specialist habitat for wildlife adapted to temporary wet and dry conditions, such as Moorhens and amphibians
• a safe breeding ground for native amphibians like Great Crested Newts, toads and frogs, due to the lack of fish