BURY'S protected newts will continue to thrive at Townside Fields, say council bosses.

There were fears that wildlife would be harmed due to the pond in Pyramid Park' drying up.

The water started disappearing months ago, shortly after the area was declared a site of special biological importance which provided a haven for amphibians. Councillor Dorothy Gunther, executive member for environment and transport, said the pond's artificial liner was damaged in several places and would be costly to repair.

Officers were looking at restoring the section of the pond to the east of Market Street bridge, while the site would be cleared up over the winter.

The council has plans to build on the pyramids between the bridge and the Metrolink line, but has categorically denied being to blame for the pond drying up.

"The pond is still very boggy underfoot, and the bullrushes are in full flower," she told last week's council meeting. "There's still plenty of moisture, and the newts have a safe habitat."