CANNON Hall’s historic Georgian lakes have been unveiled after a year of renovation works.
Barnsley Museums, working with contractor Ebsford Environmental, used low-impact machinery to improve the lakes’ appearance and also increase biodiversity.
More than 300 volunteer hours were undertaken by visitors, local job seekers and community groups who worked alongside Barnsley Council to put up fencing and create new banks for the lakes.
Volunteers will also help to monitor and maintain the landscape.
Coun Roy Miller said: “Visitors are now able to take in the serene beauty of these once forgotten lakes and appreciate the original Georgian vision and vistas which have been brought back to life.
“We’re excited to see the project well and truly underway and hope the incredible transformation will place Cannon Hall Park and Gardens firmly on the tourist map.”
Nick Hartley, managing director of Ebsford Environmental, said: “It has been a pleasure to be involved in the restoration of the Cannon Hall lakes.
“Over the past few months, Ebsford has reshaped and restored the formerly eroding banks while improving water quality and in turn the habitats for local biodiversity. 20,000 plants and 300 volunteer hours later we are proud to say we have completed this scheme with minimal impact on the environment, visitors and the wider community.
“This is one of the largest and potentially most complex projects Ebsford have ever undertaken locally. I think it is an incredible achievement and congratulations to all those involved in what has been an immensely satisfying process to restore such a treasured attraction.
“We will be monitoring conditions of the lakes over the coming months to assess the benefit of these enhancements on the wildlife.
“We look forward to watching the plants establish, and the site transform further into the spring.”
Over 17,300 cubic metres of silt was removed from the lakes, which have already seen an improvement in water quality and biodiversity.
They will also play a role in helping to reduce the risk of future flooding.
The restoration of the lakes is part of a wider £3 million development which started earlier this year as part of the Parks for People project, funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and Big Lottery Fund.
For more information about the project visit cannon-hall.com.
