What is happening at Rudyard Lake?
Recent assessments have highlighted the need for works to strengthen and improve the reservoir system, particularly regarding spillway stability, seepage control and flood management.
No works are currently taking place to the lake, however, this project recognises the importance of improving water security for canals, enhancing flood resilience and producing safer dam infrastructure.
We are currently at the feasibility phase, which is the stage at which engineers and specialists assess whether proposed works are practical, safe, and environmentally sound before committing to detailed design and construction.
Once all detailed assessments have been completed and a feasibility report has been produced, more detail on any future works will be provided.
What are the long-term benefits of this project?
The Rudyard Lake water improvement project is needed to provide improved water security for canals, enhanced flood resilience, and safer dam infrastructure.
What are you current key activities?
Activities at this stage are critical to set the foundation for any future design and delivery. It focuses on technical, environmental, and stakeholder considerations to ensure the project is viable and safe. Activities currently include:
· Reviewing all available data including collating and analysing existing surveys, inspection report and flood studies
· Site investigations including ground investigation works, geotechnical sampling and additional surveys to determine the current condition of the lake’s key infrastructure
· Hydraulic modelling including work to determine future flooding scenarios
· Optioneering including exploring design options for spillway enhancements
· Environmental and heritage considerations including ecological impact assessments, conservation constraints and further risk assessments
What are the timelines for the works?
We are expecting the feasibility phase to be complete by September 2026. At this stage, we will be able to provide more detailed timescales, including an estimated schedule of works. No work is expected to begin on-site until 2027 date at the earliest.
Who is funding the feasibility study?
These works are associated with our recent agreement with Severn Trent that will provide a greater level of confidence to bolster future water resilience to parts of the canal network and water supply in North Staffordshire.
The agreement will see Severn Trent fund an upgrade to the dam at Rudyard Lake, further strengthening infrastructure. The lake will still be owned and operated by the Trust, which will continue to be the case for many years to come.
Should the detailed design come forward and works begin, these will be managed jointly by the Trust and Severn Trent, who will instruct and manage contractors.
Will the reservoir water level change during the feasibility phase?
There will be no major changes at this stage of the project. Drawdown or adjustments will occur later during construction and current levels will remain managed for safety and navigation.
How will you be engaging stakeholders moving forward?
We will continue to consult local communities, statutory bodies, and partners to align on objectives and constraints during the feasibility phase.
At various points, we will be writing directly to these stakeholders and providing regular updates, as and when new information is available. We will also be asking interested stakeholders to provide feedback and help shape our final proposals and detailed design.
Get in touch
If you have any questions or queries please email us at enquiries.westmidlands@canalrivertrust.org.uk or call 03030 404040
