Floating reed beds will be installed at the beauty spot to provide a barrier to pollution, break down the pollutants more quickly and provide more habitat for wildlife.

The second phase of the project will include footpath improvements around the main pond and the provision of over 30 fishing pegs.

Pennytown Ponds Group has spent years campaigning for the work to be carried out and funding for the project has finally been secured by Groundwork Derby & Derbyshire, through the Derbyshire Environmental Trust.

Funding has come from Biffaward –– a multi-million pound environment fund, which utilises landfill tax credits donated by Biffa Waste Services.

Local companies on the Cotes Park Industrial Estate have also contributed to the project and Amber Valley Borough Council has contributed 10 per cent towards the total project costs under Landfill Tax regulations.

Said community wildspaces officer Tim Brooks: "This is great news for the site and the wider area.

"Pennytown is a well known and loved site by many people, which has been held back in the past by pollution giving it bad press. These works will help the site reach its full potential and ensure it remains well used by the local community."