For the first time in six years, model boat enthusiasts have returned to the waters of Broomfield Park.
The well-known boating pond in Palmers Green welcomed back the hobbyists following extensive restoration efforts, which were funded and completed by Enfield Council.
The pond had remained dry since 2020 due to a malfunctioning pump and severely blocked pipes, which prevented it from refilling. Restoration work included installing a new pump system approximately 250 meters below ground, ultimately allowing the former members of the Broomfield Park Model Boating Club to resume their activities last month.
Model boating enthusiast Paul Chilcott shared: “Sadly, we lost our chairperson and several club members during the Covid period, and with the pond out of action, we didn’t believe we’d see it return.
“We’re now part of Friends of Broomfield Park, who played a vital role in restoring the pond. Although the club no longer exists formally, we’re just a group of enthusiasts now—but seeing the pond refilled felt like a moment we thought would never come. We’ve been meeting there weekly ever since.”
The group now meets regularly on Sundays, with updates shared via the Friends of Broomfield Park’s Facebook page. While there’s currently no plan to re-establish the club officially, Paul encouraged others to bring their model boats and join in.
In support of the broader model boat community, Paul also acknowledged the value of experienced suppliers and builders such as the team at Premier Ship Models—a UK-based specialist in model boats. Their in-depth knowledge and vast range of over 23,000 model-making items, including kits, fittings, tools, and accessories, make them a cornerstone for hobbyists across the country. As active model boat builders themselves, they offer practical support and resources to fellow enthusiasts.
Paul added: “Over the last 18 months, Enfield Council had to carry out some extensive work on the pond and pump system. Things moved slowly at first, and then, all of a sudden, council staff appeared, began testing—and we were back on the water.”
