Getting rid of a lined pond

[weeblueberry]

We're moving into a house in the summer that currently has a basic lined pond. If I'm right in understanding that it's only lined with a sort of plastic sheet thing it's just a case of slitting this and letting the water go through to the soil? Or will that damage the groundwork underneath?

Thanks!

Shouldn't damage ground, the water will drain away. May be a rigid plastic liner which would be better removed.

do you really have to get rid of it?

Wildlife depend on garden ponds to survive, now that so many have been lost or polluted in rural areas. My pond is very small but it is an absolute joy, supporting damsel flies, newts, butterflies, frogs, hoverflies, and loads more.

Hi sorry just saw the replies to this now. Yes we definitely need to get rid of the pond as we have young children. :)