MAJOR restoration work is under way to bring Scampston’s lower lake back to Capability Brown’s original plan.

The project, which is supported by Natural England, involves dredging 5,000 cubic metres of silt from the lower lake, restoring it to its original depth and re-establishing many habitats within it.

The three adjoining lakes at Scampston were added to the parkland in the late 18th century following the design of popular landscape architect Capability Brown.

Across two centuries, the lakes have come to be clogged with a lot of silt, and the lower lake’s depth has been reduced to just a few inches, compared to the original average depth of 60cm.

Chris Legard, owner of Scampston Hall, said: “We are extremely grateful to Natural England for enabling us to improve the lower lake. We are hopeful that both wildlife, and the visitors to the gardens will see the benefit and that it will last for many years to come. We are excited to see fish return to the lake, as with the current depth it has been very difficult to sustain a population. In the future, we hope to continue the good work and address similar problems in the middle and upper lake.”

Dr Margaret Nieke, Natural England, said: “Scampston’s parkland is an historic environment which offers as much interest for ecologists as it does for historians. The lakes at Scampston are a critical part of Capability Brown’s vision for the landscape and it is important that they are maintained for generations to come. Natural England is delighted to be supporting Scampston Estate in preserving this legacy for the future.”