What is happening at Hill Top/Slaithwaite reservoir?
The most recent inspection of the reservoir, as part of the rigorous safety checks required every 10 years under the Reservoirs Act 1975, identified essential upgrades required to strengthen this 200-year-old structure against the impacts of climate change.
The upgraded spillway will hold more water, and leaks will be lessened to improve the performance of the reservoir.
Who is undertaking the work?
The Canal & River Trust have commissioned civil engineering company JN Bentley to undertake the repair and upgrade works.
When is the work being done?
To complete the work by the January 2027 deadline set out in the inspection report, works are due to start Spring 2025 and finish in Autumn 2026. The exact dates are being finalised, but we will notify residents before works start and this webpage will be updated regularly with the latest information.
How long will the work take?
Ground investigation works are currently underway at the reservoir to finalise the plans for the necessary construction works, these will be completed by January 2025. The upgrade works are due to take place between Spring 2025 and Autumn 2026, but exact timescales are being worked on.
How will you keep residents up to date?
We will use a variety of methods to keep residents and visitors informed about the works. This includes letters to affected addresses and information signs at the reservoir along the footpath.
You can also contact us directly if you have any questions, by emailing [email protected] or calling 0808 281 4669.
This webpage will be kept up to date, so you can keep checking back here.
Will the footpath remain open?
Access to the footpath is expected to mostly remain open. However, we will be a need to close the footpath at certain times for public safety and to allow vital works to be undertaken. Residents will be notified of any planned closures in advance, there will be signage at the entrances to the footpath and access will be managed by JN Bentley. Updates will also be posted on this webpage.
Will fishing be allowed?
Although the footpath crossing the reservoir may be closed occasionally during the works, it is anticipated that access to the reservoir will be maintained throughout, to allow anglers to continue fishing in its waters. There are no plans to fully draw down Slaithwaite Reservoir, but its water level will be significantly reduced at times during the construction works for safety reasons. This water reduction will be carefully managed to avoid impacting on the fish stock in the reservoir.
How has the reservoir been maintained to date?
To keep water flowing from the reservoir into the Huddersfield Narrow Canal we carry out regular checks and maintenance. As part of our responsibility for the safe running of the reservoir we follow strict guidelines set out by the Reservoirs Act 1975. This includes mandatory yearly checks by supervising reservoir engineers and in-depth inspections every 10 years by specially qualified civil engineers. In addition, our safety inspectors check the reservoir twice a week and our team undertake any maintenance or minor upgrades as needed.
What has been done since the findings of the inspection?
Planning for the work has been underway since the publication of the inspection report. Lots of different options have been considered and detailed plans and models have been created and tested. We are currently refining plans, ahead of submission to Kirklees Council as part of the approvals process. Our contractor JN Bentley have also completed some minor maintenance work, such as repointing and grouting. They are currently on site carrying out ground investigation works on the reservoir dam to help finalise plans.
What are the next steps?
The works at Hill Top/Slaithwaite Reservoir will benefit from Permitted Development Rights, which means a planning application is not required. However, we still need to seek approval for the detailed plans from Kirklees Council. The necessary application will be submitted at the end of 2024 and a decision is expected in the new year.
How do I get updates and stay in touch?
There are lots of ways to get in touch. Email [email protected] or call the Freephone number 0808 281 4669 between 9am and 5pm on weekdays, excluding bank holidays. Calls made outside of these hours will be returned the next working day.
