Southmere Lake
Otterbine brings new life to Southmere Lake housing development
The equipment
Otterbine Super Nova Giant Fountain
The background
The installation of an Otterbine Giant Fountain by The Fountain Workshop Limited marked an important step in the regeneration of Southmere Lake housing development in Thamesmead and coincided with the first phase of the new homes being built.
The brief
The development was the focus of significant investment from Peabody and its plans for 860 homes built over three phases around the west side of the lake.
There is a civic building with a community library, public square, and a boating and sailing club, joining the newly refurbished Lakeside Centre.
Peabody appointed environmental and engineering experts Land and Water Services Limited to undertake the £1.6m initial phase of improvement works. Initially recommended based on the outcomes of another impressive Otterbine Giant Fountain installation, The Fountain Workshop was appointed as a specialist design and build contractor for the new floating fountain.
The results
The Otterbine custom-built, 25hp Super Nova Giant Fountain has played an instrumental part in improving the lake. Able to reach heights of 27 metres with its dramatic pattern, the fountain provides a strong visual identity for the lake and the new homes.
But it’s not just beautiful – Otterbine’s Giant Fountain range is practical too. With an adjustable float and comprehensive warranty, it is the perfect water feature for a residential setting.
The fountain is an important part of our changes – not only is it attractive for residents and visitors to look at, it’s also important for the fish and other wildlife who use the lake.
Dr Phil Askew
Director of Landscape and Placemaking, Peabody
The conclusion
With Reesink Turfcare’s involvement early in the process and throughout the development of proposals, the Giant Fountain was installed by The Fountain Workshop team, working alongside Land and Water Services Limited, and was switched on for the first time just as the country was emerging from lockdown.
Having secured an ongoing maintenance contract from Peabody to ensure that the feature remains in good working order, the Otterbine fountain creates a stunning display for residents and visitors to enjoy for years to come.
