Historic pond expected to recover naturally
Anadolu via Getty ImagesWater levels at a historic Surrey pond are expected to "recover naturally", according to a councillor.
Liz Frost said Stew Pond at Epsom Common was expected to fill up again through rainfall and seasonal groundwater recharge.
However, the chair of Epsom and Ewell Borough Council's environment committee added the situation was still being kept under review.
It comes after drought conditions were photographed at the pond amid recent exceptionally hot and dry weather.
Getty Images"Whilst the appearance of low water levels can be concerning, wildlife has evolved over millions of years to cope with seasonal ponds," said Frost.
"Our approach has been to monitor the situation, fundamentally letting nature take its course and refill naturally."
Frost, from the Residents Associations of Epsom and Ewell, warned against artificially refilling ponds with mains water.
She explained that such water is chlorinated and possibly high in nutrients, meaning it can unintentionally impact water quality and wildlife.
Surrey experienced multiple heatwaves this year, with a peak temperature of 37.8°C recorded in Charlwood on 13 August.
The Met Office said July 2026 was the driest in England since records began 190 years ago.
Follow BBC Surrey on Facebook, X, and Instagram and listen to BBC Radio Surrey on Sounds. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.