A once unloved and forgotten woodland pond at St Joseph’s Hospice has been transformed into a peaceful wildlife and wellbeing space, thanks to support from the Burbo Bank Extension Community Fund.
Overgrown, stagnant and difficult to access, the pond has been carefully restored to create a welcoming environment for patients, families, staff, volunteers and the local community to enjoy. 
Located within the hospice’s 12-acre woodland grounds, the pond redevelopment project aims to create a destination that supports wellbeing, encourages wildlife, promotes biodiversity and enhances the woodland walk used by visitors and patients alike.
The restoration involved clearing overgrown vegetation, cleaning and disposing of years of debris from the pond, installing timber planters around the perimeter and introducing hardy woodland planting designed to attract insects and wildlife while providing year-round colour and interest.
Volunteers helped to install railway sleepers, prepare planting areas and support ongoing maintenance of the space.
In time, the pond will become a tranquil focal point within the hospice grounds. Plans are also being developed to improve wheelchair access to the pond in the future, helping ensure even more people can enjoy the space.
Mike Parr, Chief Executive Officer at St Joseph’s Hospice, said:
“Thanks to the Burbo Bank Extension Community Fund, our woodland pond has been transformed from an unloved pool to a vibrant and tranquil wildlife haven. Our patients, staff, visitors and the local community will benefit from the improvements, providing them with a beautiful and contemplative woodland oasis.”
The project demonstrates how investment in green spaces can support both environmental improvement and community wellbeing, creating places where people can pause, reflect and connect with nature during difficult times.
The next application deadline for the Burbo Bank Extension Community Fund is 23 September 2026, midnight.
For more information about eligibility and how to apply, visit: https://grantscape.org.uk/fund/burbo-bank-extension-community-fund/
Hear from Tony (the contractor that completed the works), about how the pond redevelopment has created a peaceful space for patients, families, staff and visitors to enjoy.
