PETERSFIELD Town Council has announced the name of the company due to start a massive makeover of the Heath Pond costing around £600,000.

The council has commissioned Five Rivers Environmental Contracting to undertake the work, due to start on January 20 and last for about 12 weeks.

The council’s Grounds Committee chairman Jamie Matthews said: “The Heath is a much-loved place for the local community and visitors.

“This exciting enhancement and restoration project will transform this part of it into a habitat rich in biodiversity and make it a more enjoyable place to visit, watch the wildlife, fish or just relax.

“The council has spent the past few years working with stakeholders and local organisations to develop this plan which will ensure the pond and its environs continue to be a much-loved place for future generations.

“During the work the bank areas of the pond will change significantly until new planting has developed.

“I appreciate there will be some concern about this but I’m confident, along with our partners Five Rivers, this will be outweighed by the long-term gains.”

The work includes creating two islands to break up wave action created by the prevailing south-west wind, which will help protect the banks from further erosion. The islands will also provide nesting habitat for birds.

The lake enhancement works will also protect the banks from further erosion using a variety of techniques.

The work will also see an improvement in water quality and provide habitat for juvenile fish, wildfowl and invertebrates.

A new non-slip wheelchair accessible boardwalk meandering through a series of reed beds will be created on the western edge, providing views across the lake.

Duck Island will be improved, and three new non-slip fishing areas created around the pond.

Council clerk Neil Hitch said: “There will be a large compound for the contractors at the Heath Road entrance to store welfare facilities, plant, materials and vehicles.

“In the interest of public health and safety, an application to Hampshire County Council has been submitted to divert the footpath entrance at Heath Road, and details of this will be advertised in advance.

“We would be very grateful if people refrain from approaching the team while they are working and contact the council if you would like any information.”

Petersfield mayor Lesley Farrow added: “We have been deeply concerned about the disintegration of the pond banks, and we also wanted to be able to improve wildlife habitat.

“In selecting this company to undertake this work, in my opinion, we chose the most professional and knowledgeable company we could find.”