Visitors are being urged to stay away from a popular beauty spot in Bannau Brycheiniog after prolonged hot, dry weather and increased demand from firefighters caused water levels to fall to a "dangerously" low level.
The Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority has issued a warning over Keepers Pond, also known as Pen-ffordd-goch Pond, on the slopes of the Blorenge. The pond is a well-known attraction and popular hiking destination, as well as a favourite swimming spot during the summer months.
Water levels drop after dry weather and firefighting demand
Recent weeks have seen the pond's water levels drop significantly following a prolonged period of hot and dry weather. The pond has also become an important water source for firefighters responding to wildfires across the area, with the fire service drawing water from Keepers Pond to help tackle significant blazes. This has included the wildfire on Mynydd Garnclochdy which destroyed hundreds of acres of common land.
As the water has receded, previously submerged areas of the pond bed have been exposed, revealing unknown objects and potential hazards.
No access to the pond until further notice
The National Park Authority is therefore warning members of the public not to enter the water under any circumstances. The restriction applies to all activities on or in the pond, including swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking and other water-based activities.
The warning comes just days after Cadw, the Welsh Government's historic environment service, said it had received interest in the unusually low water levels, which have revealed archaeological material at the site. The National Park further confirmed that while the car park at Keepers Pond will remain open, access to the pond itself is not permitted until further notice.
Heritage protection and public safety
A spokesperson for Bannau Brycheiniog National Park said: "We will continue to carry out litter picks at the site. However, we ask that visitors respect the area and do not remove, disturb or interfere with any objects or features revealed by the low water levels."
"In partnership with CADW, we remind visitors that Keepers Pond is a Scheduled Monument of historical significance, and any disturbance may damage important heritage assets."
"We appreciate your cooperation as we work to protect both public safety and this important historic site. Updates will be provided as the situation changes."
