The ponds original  construction necessitated large machinery to dig into the floor of the Valley, where ,if nature had intended ,a pond it would already have existed.  The Reeded flood plain for the Cot Steam , was on this site of the pond,  not very beautiful , but an essential  part of the valley and its Eco-system. This has now been lost,  and flood waters, especially in winter,  when the stream is running in full flood,  have no where to go. As the high soil banks of the pond actually abut the stream ,  Flood water has no where to go but force its way downstream washing friable soil from these  very banks into the system below. Residents lower than this construction are seriously concerned should it collapse at any point, flooding their homes . 

This is the SECOND   Retrospect Application  for this pond.

For thousands of years the Valley has existed, supporting nature at its very best, and any interference will breakdown the very Eco-system we are told this “pond” will create. Creatures now cannot wander on the pond side of the stream,  freely , and there is the  risk of them falling in and being unable to escape due to the steep banks. Is it necessary for the land to be fenced in this way, surely wildlife corridors need to be installed?  Who will it benefit? Last winter when it was filled there were Canada Geese on the pond. Wild life yes, but also a pest. Decimating crops in the blink of an eye and a threat to incoming aircraft. Will the landowner then have to apply for a license to cull these creatures ? 

The A.O.N.B have quoted in their comments below

“The Pond is constructed through excavation on the up slope side with an embankment above the line of the stream in the foot of the Valley. The flat surface of the pond and its supporting embankment are uncharacteristic elements within the landscape.The uncharacteristic appearance is reinforced by the stone built “quay” which extends out into the pond. “      “ The new “gateposts”complete with finials “       “ These  elements combine to provide a marked domestication  of the Valley Bottom  which is at odds with its characteristic pattern of small enclosed fields descending the steep valley sides, to the mix of rougher grazing, scrub and woodland at the Valley Bottom.” 

“Section 85 of the Country side and Rights of way act places a duty of Regard in dealing with applications”

“ The conspicuous domestication of this part of the Valley Floor in this very sensitive landscape fails to respond to this policy protection and we object to it on this basis”

“The A.O.N.B enjoys the very highest level of landscape protection, equal to that of National  Parks.”