The reservoir, which supplies water to the Huddersfield Narrow Canal, is a popular walking route for locals, so we will keep any footpath closures to a minimum. Signs will be placed on the site if a temporary closure is necessary.
The improvements
The maintenance works will initially see monitoring equipment installed around the reservoir to identify any leakages and from the 200-year-old reservoir.
Then, later this year improvements will be made to the reservoir's bywash channel to increase its capacity to carry water in a storm event.
The initial installation of monitoring equipment will see a temporary scaffold bridge installed next week at the side of the main footpath around the reservoir. Although no closure is planned, there may be small delays while equipment is transported to the site.
Our contractors are mindful that the path is a well-used route for the local primary school, so will avoid disruption during drop-off and pick-up times.
An important structure
Sean McGinley said: “Slaithwaite Reservoir is an important structure, and we have a duty to ensure it is safe and well maintained.
“The Trust apologies for any inconvenience this may cause whist essential work is carried out, but we will do our best to keep disruption to a minimum.
“Water levels have been kept low during the winter months, but following the installation of monitoring equipment, the reservoir will be allowed to refill again – helping to supply water to the Huddersfield Narrow Canal this summer.
“Details of further works, including the bywash improvements, will be available later this year.”