The Friends of Prince Consort Gardens (FOPCG) are launching a funding campaign to convert an

under-used boating pond into a haven for pond wildlife.

The pond concept will re-generate this area of the gardens giving it a new focus and incorporate: an

area of bog planting for habitat creation specific for dragonflies and other invertebrates; an open

stretch of water for newts and frogs; the recreation of a historic island that was originally on the site;

and water management pump.

Over 130 years ago, the Gardens were gifted to the local authority by the Smyth-Piggott family.

Since then the pond has gone through several stages from pond with planted islands, yachting pond,

and now rests as a shade of its former glory. Today, the Gardens are owned by North Somerset

Council with whom we work in cooperation.

Our primary aims include:

• Attracting younger children and families to the gardens by providing opportunities for

children to participate in activities such as pond dipping.

• Providing a new environment, which will increase the range of our resident wildlife.

In order to create this new facility, we need to build a fund of £11,000. North Somerset Council have

already pledged £1000 match funding towards our total. If you are interested in our aims and wish

to donate, then come along and see us on any Saturday morning in the gardens, or email us at

fopcg@btinternet.com for our bank details. Our target date is May 2019.

About The Friends of Prince Consort Gardens:

FOPCG were formed as a not-for-profit group in 2012. We volunteer our time for gardening and

work through campaigns and advocacy for greater enhancements to the gardens and local area. We

also involve other Community Groups.

“The Friends have managed to create a garden environment far better than officialdom had

ever managed”. (John Crockford-Hawley, Chairman - North Somerset Council 2016-2017.)

We have a track record of achievements to the gardens which, to date includes: securing Town

Green status in 2013 to protect the gardens for generations to come; local and national awards

including consecutive Green Flag Awards; significant re-building to the garden entrances; restoration

of the Victorian shelter; and ongoing care for plants, habitat and wildlife.