City reservoir to be returned to former glory

THE final steps to restore a city beauty spot to its former glory will start in a the new year – when Llanishen Reservoir in Cardiff will begin refilling with water.

The site was at the heart of a long-fought public battle to preserve it when Western Power Distribution (WPD) announced plans to build a housing development.

People power prevailed and, when the attempt to develop homes failed, steel company Celsa bought the site in 2013.

Two years ago, Welsh Water was granted a 999-year lease on the reservoir.

When it took over, it said it hoped to one day return boats to the site but said the priority was to restore the reservoir which had fallen into disrepair after it was drained during the time it was slated for a housing development.

Welsh Water now plans to start refilling early next year, however the refill process can take up two years, which is why repairs to the reservoir basin were carried out first.

Work is taking longer than expected but it is hoped this will be completed by the end of February, paving the way for the refilling to start.

Phil Savage, 58, secretary for the Reservoir Action Group, which successfully spearheaded the fight against the housing proposals, said: “We are absoultely delighted with the news that the work is set to begin early next year.

“Welsh Water took over the site and have the power and the tools to not only restore, but also preserve the site.

“We are hoping there will be a public recreational site with a walking path to allow residents to fully enjoy the site.