The Brief:
Egypt Mill’s historic mill pond had become heavily silted over many years, reducing its visual appeal and impacting the overall setting of the property. Overlooking the pond is the hotel’s popular outdoor restaurant and beer garden, where guests expect an attractive waterside environment.
In addition to improving the appearance of the pond, Egypt Mill is exploring plans to reinstate the site’s original mill wheel. Restoring the pond’s capacity and removing accumulated silt was an essential first step in making this long-term heritage project possible.
The Solution:
To minimise disruption while carrying out the works efficiently, we used our Truxor amphibious machine to remove the accumulated silt from the pond. The material was hydraulically pumped directly into geotextile silt bags, which were positioned inside skips to keep the site tidy and simplify handling.
This method allowed the water to drain naturally from the silt while containing the material securely, making it straightforward to remove and transport off site for disposal. The approach reduced the need for heavy machinery around the pond and maintained a clean, organised working area throughout the project.
The Result:
The desilting works successfully restored the mill pond, dramatically improving its appearance and enhancing the views from Egypt Mill’s outdoor dining areas. Guests can once again enjoy an attractive waterside setting that complements the character of the historic property.
Just as importantly, the project has laid the foundations for the future reinstatement of the historic mill wheel, helping to preserve and celebrate an important part of the site’s heritage. The efficient removal and off-site disposal of the silt ensured the works were completed with minimal disruption while delivering lasting environmental and aesthetic benefits.
