What is happening at Hill Top/Slaithwaite reservoir?
The reservoir was recently inspected as part of the safety checks required every 10 years under the Reservoirs Act 1975. During this inspection, essential upgrades were identified which are needed to future-proof this 200-year-old structure for generations to come. We will be upgrading the spillway to hold more water, and leaks will be lessened to improve the performance of the reservoir.
Who is undertaking the work?
We have commissioned civil engineering company JN Bentley to undertake the repair and upgrade works.
When will work start and how long will it take?
We will begin pre-construction and remedial works in Autumn 2025, pause briefly over the festive period, and start constructing the new spillway in the new year. We expect to complete the work in early 2027, meeting the legal deadline set out in the inspection report.
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.
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.
Are there any plans to improve pedestrian access on the footpath?
Our upcoming work will focus on essential improvements to the reservoir, which is managed by our charity. However, with the council’s agreement, we’ll also be upgrading the fencing across the footpath.
We’re aware of interest in making the footpath easier to use, such as replacing the steps with a ramp. As the footpath is managed by Kirklees Council, these changes aren’t part of our programme. However, we support efforts to make walking routes more accessible.
Will fishing be allowed?
We expect to maintain reservoir access throughout the works so anglers can continue fishing. We do not plan to fully draw down Slaithwaite Reservoir, but we will significantly reduce water levels at times for safety reasons. We will carefully manage water reductions to avoid affecting the reservoir’s fish stock.
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. Refined plans have been submitted 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 have also undertaken ground investigations at the reservoir as part of the planning process.
What are the next steps?
From Autumn 2025, our construction partner JN Bentley will be on site to begin preparations for the construction of the new spillway. During this period, we will also complete the leak mitigations works. This stage of works will be completed by the end of 2025, ahead of the main construction period starting early 2026.
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.
