Keith Holmes says...

Firstly, you need to consider the size of pond that you hope to end up with, then discuss with your local Koi dealer the area required for all of the associated equipment. Before you make a final decision you should also consider:

1 Access: Is there easy access for skips, diggers and machinery?

2 Utilities: A Koi pond will require access to electricity, water, and maybe even gas. These can all prove costly to have installed if they are not already located close to where you propose to build the pond.

3 Trees: Are there any large trees or other well-established plants nearby? They may have strong roots that can cause problems with excavation or more serious problems to the structure of the pond once it’s built. Autumn leaves may also fall into your pond increasing the levels of maintenance required on your part.

4 Underground services: You may want to check the locations of underground pipes and cables. Too many times people have started digging only to end up drenched in water as they have gone through a
water main.

5 Proximity to buildings: Unless you are seeking professional advice from a suitably qualified person, always try and avoid locating your pond next to existing buildings for fear of undermining the integrity of that building.

6 Distance away from buildings: If you never use part of your garden now, will you use it just because you build a Koi pond there?