Surrey County and the local borough council are urging residents not to pour tap water into Chain Pond after the waterbody largely dried out this summer. The warning comes as a petition calling for the pond’s restoration has attracted more than 1,300 signatures.
What authorities have done so far
Council officers say they have taken steps to investigate and maintain the site. In 2025, silt was removed from the pond and authorities have been working with local groups to manage the area in a way that supports natural resilience while protecting the wider ecosystem. The council is also liaising with Surrey County Council to ensure inflows to the pond have been checked and are free from blockages.
“There are other Surrey ponds that have dried up this summer. We understand that this can be alarming… Whilst well intentioned, we do ask that people don't add tap water into the pond, even in containers, as the chlorine and other chemicals can be harmful to plants and wildlife.”
Why officials advise against topping the pond up
Officials stressed that introducing tap water — even in small quantities — can be damaging. Chlorine and other chemicals commonly found in treated household water can harm aquatic plants and the invertebrates and birds that depend on them. Instead, the council says it is working with conservation groups to adopt measures that promote natural recovery and long-term sustainability.
- More than 1,300 signatures on a restoration petition.
- Silt removal at Chain Pond took place in 2025.
- Councils are checking inlets for blockages and coordinating with local groups.
Local wildlife and community concerns
Chain Pond has become a noted local wildlife spot in recent years. The pond was reported as the home of a moorhen known locally as Kevin, which, with its partner, has raised numerous chicks there in consecutive seasons. The visible loss of water this year has alarmed residents and prompted the petition, but council staff emphasise that ill-judged interventions can worsen ecological harm.
Residents wanting to help are advised to contact the council or local conservation groups rather than taking direct action. The council has said it will continue monitoring the pond, inspecting inlets and working with partners to support the site’s recovery in ways that protect sensitive species and habitats.
| Issue | Action taken |
|---|---|
| Silt build-up | Removed in 2025 |
| Blocked inlets | Being inspected with Surrey County Council |
| Public intervention | Residents urged not to add tap water |
Those with information, concerns or offers of help are encouraged to contact their local council or known conservation partners rather than attempting to refill the pond themselves. Officials say co-ordinated, ecologically informed action offers the best chance for Chain Pond to recover naturally.
Freddie Marshall, Surrey correspondent
