Project
Sharples School – Pond and Boardwalk Project
Hill Cot Road, Astley Bridge, Bolton
Client: Sharples School
Final Value: £0000
Start Date: June 2025
Finish Date: June 2025
Background
Sharples School identified the need to enhance the ecological value and educational potential of its existing pond area and partnered with CCNW to carry out the necessary improvements. The existing pond required restoration, with spoil needing to be shaped and reused on site to support wildlife.
The old, deteriorating boardwalk had to be removed and replaced, the dipping platform was also needed to support safe outdoor learning. Additional requirements included managing hazardous trees and creating habitat features such as hibernacula and log piles to boost biodiversity.
Project Aim
The aim of the project was to restore and improve the pond area at Sharples School to enhance its ecological value and provide a safe, accessible space for outdoor learning and wildlife education.
CCNW Solution
- Pond Restoration: Restoration of the existing pond measuring approximately 25m x 25m. Excavated spoil was sensitively shaped and bonded at the rear of the pond to support wildlife habitat and prevent erosion.
- Removal of Old Infrastructure: The existing, degraded boardwalk was carefully dismantled and removed from site to make way for new access improvements.
- Boardwalk Installation: A total of 75 metres of new boardwalk was installed, running around the pond edge and extending into the nearby grassland area.
- Dipping Platform Construction: A timber dipping platform was built on the pond edge.
- Woodland and Habitat Management: Hazardous and fallen trees were made safe.
- Habitat enhancements: this included the creation of hibernacula and log piles using timber and brash generated from the clearance works.
This project has significantly improved both the safety and ecological value of the pond area at Sharples School. The new boardwalk and dipping platform provide safe and durable access for students and staff, while the habitat enhancements support a greater diversity of wildlife. The site is now a more inviting space for outdoor learning and nature engagement, with long-term benefits for education and the environment.
Special Features
Habitat Enhancements
Services
Construction
Vegetation Management
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