Survey Reveals Poynton Pool’s Volume is Less Than Council’s Initial Estimate

A recent survey has indicated that a body of water, where a local council plans tree removal for safety enhancements, possesses a smaller volume than initially estimated. Cheshire East Council intends to clear trees at Poynton Pool, citing safety concerns and a legal obligation stemming from its classification as a reservoir, a designation based on its water volume. However, a report from the Environment Agency determined Poynton Pool’s combined volume of water and silt to be approximately 75,000 cubic metres, a figure considerably lower than the council’s prior assessment of 130,000 cubic metres. The council stated that this alteration in volume constitutes one of “several matters under review.” Poynton Pool itself is an ornamental pond established around 1750. Local campaigners have voiced objections regarding the proposed plans for the location and have put forth an an alternative suggestion that would entail the removal of substantially fewer trees. The Friends of Poynton Pool (FoPP) expressed approval of the recent survey and articulated their hope that its findings would “encourage council planners to engage in dialogue to discuss the results and their alternative proposals.” The Environment Agency finalized a survey to gauge Poynton Pool in August 2024. The survey indicates a maximum depth of 2.82 metres for the pond and a total content of 75,598 cubic metres of water and silt, with approximately 40% of this volume consisting of silt. The report affirmed its continued classification as a reservoir due to its volume exceeding 25,000 cubic metres. The document, parts of which have been redacted, stated that it was “considered possible that, in the event of an uncontrolled release of water, human life could be endangered.” Consequently, it is recommended for classification as “high risk.” Mike Ellison, chairman of FoPP, commented: “FoPP appreciates the additional investigations that Cheshire East and the Environment Agency are undertaking to investigate the concerns raised by the local community.” Cheshire East has communicated its intention to organize a collaborative meeting with FoPP and Poynton Town Council once all new information becomes accessible. Cheshire East Council issued a statement: “The recently completed bathymetric survey report does confirm a revised total volume for the reservoir. It is one of several matters under review and consideration by the council as the body with overall management responsibilities for the reservoir. Any reservoir with a volume greater than 25,000 cubic metres is still classed as a high risk and the dam categorisation is highly unlikely to change.”