Reservoir open day attracts over 600 visitors
A PUBLIC open day at the Welsh Harp Brent Reservoir in London attracted more than 600 people.
Hosted by the Canal & River Trust, it gave visitors the chance to speak to the project team and find out more about the structural and environmental improvement work that is under way at the reservoir.
Canal & River Trust head of London & South East operations Charlotte Wood said: “We were delighted to meet so many people wanting to find out more about what’s involved in managing this incredibly important place for people and wildlife in such a densely populated urban area. This successful open day was made possible with the support of many partners, with special thanks to the Welsh Harp Sailing Club.
“To carry out our essential maintenance works at the reservoir, we’ve drained around 1000 mega litres of water and rescued around 100,000 fish, some weighing as much as 30lb. Our volunteers and contractors have spent 844 hours removing more than 400 bags of rubbish, as well as tyres, e-bikes, safes, clothing and suitcases.”
Welsh Harp Brent Reservoir was built in 1835 to supply water to the Grand Union Canal.
As well as being a place for sailing, watersports and walking, it is protected as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) for the rich diversity of wildlife found on site, including water birds and 16 protected plant species.
The reservoir works, which are required under the Reservoir Act 1975 and are supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery, include: repairs to the chains and rods that operate the reservoir’s sluices and repainting the Valve House Tower from where the sluice gates which control the water levels in the reservoir are operated.
Charlotte added: “We’ve also been carrying out a series of environmental improvements at the Welsh Harp Brent Reservoir SSSI, including creating alcoves in the reed beds to provide more shelter for nesting birds.
“And, with the support of the Welsh Harp Conservation Group, we plan to install 14 new island habitats for common terns, one of the species of water bird that lives on the reservoir.”
The reservoir remains open to the public throughout the works, but signs are in place warning visitors not to walk on the drained area and mud for their own safety.
Refilling is expected to start in the spring.