Staunton Country Park visitors warned of temporary closures as damaged lake repaired
Essential repair work is being planned for the lake at Staunton Country Park after investigations found problems with water loss and damage to the lake wall.
The lake, which lies on the northern edge of the idyllic Grade II listed Regency Park on the outskirts of Havant, has seen water levels drop over the past few years.
A Hampshire County Council (HCC) study carried out in 2023 found several reasons for the issue, including high evaporation during hot weather, leaks through the retaining wall, and water soaking into nearby soil.
Inspectors also found parts of the brick wall showing signs of wear and tear. Some bricks were loose, plants and small trees had started to grow within the structure, and some sections were leaning inward.
These defects are thought to be letting water escape from the lake.
Although the lake’s sluice pit and outlet pipe were found to be working properly, engineers discovered a “spillway” section reinforced with sandbags, where water was leaking through, suggesting that the wall is not watertight in that area.
A planning application has now been submitted for repair work to strengthen the wall and prevent further leaks.
The design and heritage statement says the work will be carried out carefully to protect the park’s historic landscape.
If approved, the work will focus on rebuilding weak parts of the wall, sealing leaks, and stabilising water levels in the lake.
To carry out the repairs, the water level in the lake will be lowered slightly in small areas to give builders space to work.
A temporary barrier will be used to block off each area in turn so the rest of the lake can stay filled.
Park staff will make sure that fish and wildlife are kept safe while the work takes place.
Once the wall is uncovered, engineers will check its condition and remove plants and roots that are damaging the bricks.
Damaged sections will be rebuilt, loose bricks replaced, and cracks filled with new mortar. A special waterproof coating will be added below the waterline to help stop future leaks.
In areas where the wall is leaning, new supporting brick pillars will be built to strengthen it. Workers will also repair the brickwork around the lake’s water channel and fix parts of the gravel path to stop puddles forming after rain.
Visitors are being advised that some temporary path closures or restrictions may be needed while the work is carried out.
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