New Duck Feeder and Boardwalk Project at Oak Hill Park
New Duck Feeder and Boardwalk Project at Oak Hill Park
Hyndburn Borough Council has unveiled the installation of a new duck feeder and the completion of boardwalk improvements at Oak Hill Park, Accrington. The initiative is part of the Council’s ongoing efforts to enhance the park’s amenities and promote sustainable practices.
Councillor Kimberley Whitehead, Portfolio Holder for Parks and Open Spaces said:
“We are pleased to introduce a new duck feeder, generously donated by the Feed the Ducks Initiative. This innovative feeder aims to improve the way we feed ducks and other wildfowl in our parks and open spaces. Traditional bread feeding is harmful to birds and the environment, leading to poor nutrition for the birds and pollution in our ponds. The duck pond at Oak Hill Park has long been a cherished spot where families can enjoy moments together, creating memories in this beautiful natural setting, and I’m delighted with the improvements made to this space.”
Image: Councillor Kimberley Whitehead with the newly installed duck feed dispenser at Oak Hill Park
The new feeder, made from recycled materials, dispenses nutritious food that is better for the birds and the ecosystem.
The Feed the Ducks Initiative is dedicated to eliminating bread feeding in public parks and promoting sustainable feeding practices. The feeder is solar-powered and contactless, ensuring convenience and environmental friendliness.
Matthew Knight at the Feed the Ducks initiative said:
“The Feed Ducks Initiative partners with local authorities to bring our solar powered, contactless duck food dispensers to their communities. Many families enjoy feeding ducks, but this often involves using bread, which makes ducks ill, and it does not contain the right nutrition or calories that they need to grow and keep warm.
By introducing a healthier alternative the public can enjoy feeding the ducks in a more sustainable way. We are pleased to be able to provide our duck feeder at Oak Hill Park and be part of the community there.”
The duck feeders are made sustainably, with each dispenser recycling the equivalent of 20,000 plastic bottles, contributing to the Council’s climate change pledge.
Duck feed can be purchased via contactless payment for £1 from the dispenser, which also advises on suitable alternate feeds should members of the public still wish to bring their own. In addition, 10% of the proceeds from the purchase of duck food will be reinvested into park projects and local volunteer group initiatives, further benefiting our community.
The boardwalk area around the pond has undergone significant improvements. The old wooden boards have been replaced with new composite boards, which are also made from recycled materials.
Image: Duck pond at Oak Hill Park
The pond has been closed to the public whilst work was carried out, which improves the aesthetic appeal of the park and ensures durability and sustainability. It is now open for the public to once again enjoy.
These projects reflect our commitment to preserving the natural beauty of Oak Hill Park while promoting environmentally friendly practices. We invite the community to visit the park, enjoy the new amenities, and participate in our efforts to maintain and improve this cherished green space.
Oak Hill Park is one of 11 Green Flag parks in Hyndburn.