Warning not to refill 'dried up' historical pond

The public has been urged not to refill a historical Surrey pond during the exceptionally hot weather.

Chain Pond on Earlswood Common has run dry, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS).

It adds that campaigners have been unable to persuade the local authority to free up its inlet, which appears to be blocked, desilt the pond and check the clay liner for cracks.

A spokesperson for Reigate and Banstead Borough Council said they were aware of concerns regarding Chain Pond, which was being impacted by climate change.

"As Chain Pond is a relatively small, shallow pond that relies solely on rainwater its water levels will fluctuate seasonally," said councillor Nadean Moses.

Moses says the local authority works with groups to manage Chain Pond in a way which supports natural resilience, is sustainable, and protects the wider natural ecosystem.

A petition calling for the restoration of the pond has passed 1,300 signatures.

The council had removed silt in 2025, plus was liaising with Surrey County Council to make sure the inlets have been checked and are clear of blockages, according to Moses.

"There are other Surrey ponds that have dried up this summer," she said.

"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."

In recent years, the pond has become the home of Kevin the moorhen, who along with his partner, has raised many chicks there, the LDRS reports.

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