How to Create a Pond

How to Build a Pond in Your Garden

Adding a pond to your garden is a fantastic way to bring a little tranquillity to your outdoor space, and it’s great for local wildlife too.

Whether you’re looking to create a small wildlife pond or a larger water feature, this guide will walk you through the process using equipment available to hire from Speedy Hire.

What You’ll Need

You don’t need to break the bank to build a garden pond–and you can save even more by hiring the tools you need from Speedy:

• Mini Digger – Makes light work of digging, especially for deeper or larger ponds.
• Spade & Shovel – For shaping the edges and more detailed digging.
• Wheelbarrow – To move earth, stones, and equipment.
• Plate Compactor – Helps level and compact the soil at the base.
• Spirit Level – Essential for making sure the pond edges are even.
• Pond Liner & Underlay – Protects your pond from leaks and punctures.

Step-by-Step: Building a Pond

1. Pick the Perfect Spot

Choose a level area that gets around 4–6 hours of sunlight daily. Avoid placing your pond directly under trees, as falling leaves can clog it up.

2. Plan Your Pond Shape

Use a string, a rope, or even a hosepipe to mark out your design. Popular shapes include ovals and kidney-shaped ponds, but you can get creative. Consider a mix of shallow ledges and a deeper central area.

3. Dig Your Pond

Use a mini digger to remove the bulk of the soil, and a spade for shaping. Aim for around 60cm depth in the centre. For wildlife ponds, keep one side gently sloping so animals can get in and out easily.

4. Prepare the Base

Clear the hole of any stones, roots, or sharp debris. Lay your protective underlay, followed by the pond liner. Make sure there’s plenty of liner overlapping the edge – you’ll trim it later.

5. Fill with Water

Start filling your pond with water slowly. As it fills, adjust the liner so it fits snugly without creases. If using tap water, allow it to sit for 24 hours before adding plants to remove chlorine.

6. Add the Finishing Touches

Trim off any excess liner, leaving a flap around the edge that can be hidden under stones, paving, or turf. Add some aquatic plants like water lilies or irises for colour, oxygenation, and to attract insects.

7. Ongoing Maintenance

Scoop out leaves regularly and top up the water in dry spells. In warmer months, algae can build up. So, use a pump to drain the water and replace it, or a fountain to help keep the water moving and oxygenated.

FAQs

Why add a pond to your garden?

If you have enough space in your garden to add a pond, there are so many benefits:

• Encourages biodiversity – Frogs, newts, birds, and bees all benefit.
• Adds interest – A pond can be a focal point and a relaxing space to sit by.
• Low maintenance – Once established, ponds need very little upkeep.

​Do I need planning permission to build a pond in my UK garden?

In most cases, you won't need planning permission for a garden pond. However, if your property is in a conservation area or is listed, it’s best to check with your local council before starting work.

What tools do I need to build a garden pond?

To build a pond, you'll typically need a mini digger, spade, wheelbarrow, compactor plate, spirit level, pond liner, and underlay. All of these can be hired from Speedy Services to make the job quicker and easier.

How deep should a garden pond be in the UK?

A general guideline is to dig the pond to around 45–60 cm deep in the centre. Shallow edges are recommended for plants and easy access for wildlife like frogs or birds.

How do I keep my pond water clean?

Use oxygenating aquatic plants, like hornwort or water crowfoot, and consider installing a small pump or fountain to keep the water moving. Regularly remove fallen leaves and top up the pond with rainwater when needed.

How do I build a pond in my garden UK?

To build a garden pond, choose a sunny spot, mark your shape, and dig to around 60cm deep. Line with underlay and pond liner, then fill with water. Add aquatic plants and edge the pond with stones. Hire tools like mini diggers and compactors from Speedy Hire for the best results.

Hire the Tools you need from Speedy

Whether you’re digging a new pond or levelling your garden, Speedy Hire has all the tools and equipment you need to get the job done quickly and safely. From excavators to compactor plates, our hire options are affordable and available nationwide.