Have your say on our propsoals to upgrade Harthill Reservoir

We've announced plans in December 2020 to upgrade the reservoir to bring it in line with modern standards. The team has been working hard over the last 12 months, carrying out ground investigations to inform the design of a new weir and overflow spillway.

Subject to planning permission, the main project is expected to start in summer 2022, with upgrade works due to complete in 2023. We will keep reservoir water levels temporarily reduced until the upgrade work is completed.

Sharing our proposals

Sean McGinley, our regional director for Yorkshire & North East explained: “We are pleased to be sharing proposals to re-model the overflow spillway. The new design has been informed by extensive ground investigation and topographical studies, as well as heritage and ecological assessments that have taken place over the last 12 months.

“The reservoir is a much loved, well-used resource which feeds water to the Chesterfield Canal. It is important we carry out these works to bring the reservoir up to modern standards and to ensure people can continue to enjoy the important physical health and wellbeing benefits of being by water for many years to come. We are encouraging people to learn more about the proposed works and to have their say on the plans.”

Our public consultation

We're holding a public consultation on our proposals between Monday 10 January and Sunday 30 January. Plans can be viewed online at: www.canalrivertrust.org.uk/harthill

Alternatively, please contact the team to have printed or large-scale versions posted to you. Email: [email protected] or call the Freephone information line on 0800 028 8141.

An online community meeting to discuss the proposed plans and invite questions is open to all. This will be held on Tuesday 18 January at 6.30pm. Please register to attend the online meeting by emailing [email protected] or calling the Freephone information line on 0800 028 8141.

An important local leisure destination

The reservoir, situated between Sheffield and Worksop near to the village of Harthill, was constructed more than 200 years ago to supply water to the Chesterfield Canal, located approximately two miles to the north.

Once a key route for commercial boat traffic, beautiful Chesterfield Canal has become an important local leisure destination. Harthill Reservoir still acts as an important water feed to the canal and is now also a popular fishery, local walking route and home to groups such as Rotherham Sailing Club and Yorkshire Outdoor Swimmers.