Llanfyllin artist bids to convert pond into wildlife space

The proposition comes after Michael Mihangel removed an old stagnant, leaking pond from LLanfyllin Allotments and replaced it with a brand-new circular pond, designed to attract a wider range of wildlife.

Michael, based in Llanfyllin, said a proposition to turn the site into a wildlife and community space has been previously raised, as tenants have had difficulty growing anything in the past.

He said: “It was the intention to remove the old dysfunctional pond and replace it with an updated version before the end of Winter and before the frogs spawn arrived.

"The dismantling and constructing took far longer than expected but the pond looks really good and makes the allotment a wealthier and healthier place with the generously that it adds to the natural world and the added biodiversity of this beautiful little part of Llanfyllin.”

Some of Michael's work on display

Should this plan be approved, the pond would be surrounded by flowers, plants and seating areas for people to enjoy the pond space and the company of others.

On the proposed wildlife and community space, he said: “The site would also be a great resource for art students at Llanfyllin School with its stunning beauty especially throughout the Spring, Summer and Autumn.

“Students could spend many an hour or even days outside, drawing, painting and photographing the phenomenal array of shapes, patterns, textures and colours that are presented throughout the growers flowers and vegetables and that are brought to life in gorgeous spaces of natural light transforming the allotment into a place of peace and tranquillity.”

Examples of Michael’s artwork including paintings of the allotment can be found on: www.michaelmihangel.co.uk

He is currently exhibiting paintings until late Summer in Daisy Blue clothes shop, Llanfyllin Square and in The Brynteg Window Gallery, in the High Street, Llanfyllin, until mid-March.