Reservoir shake-up ‘could wreck Dambusters legacy’
THE legacy of the Dambusters could be “obliterated” by building proposals at the group’s old training base, campaigners have warned.
Severn Trent Water has applied for a development consent order from the Government to build at Derwent Dam, in Derbyshire’s Upper Derwent Valley, and extend a reservoir.
The site is where the RAF’s 617 Squadron, known as the Dambusters, trained in preparation for Operation Chastise during the Second World War. They used bombs which “bounced” on water to destroy key German dams.
The Derwent Dam wall also holds the Dambusters Museum, which is currently closed.
Derwent and Hope Woodlands Parish Council said: “If the Derwent Dam walls are raised, these Grade II-listed memorial structures would disappear under concrete and water.
“Derwent Dam wall especially is an iconic treasure of the Peak District National Park and recognisable with millions of visitors coming to see it.
“It would simply no longer be there. Many visitors to the Upper Derwent Valley, particularly the less mobile and veterans of the forces, come to remember the sacrifices made by those involved in the war.”
The Dambusters Icons group added: “What is being proposed could obliterate the remaining legacy of the airmen’s sacrifice for our freedom.”
The famous raids on German dams were launched from RAF Scampton in Lincolnshire in May 1943. Eight of the 19 bombers involved were shot down and 53 airmen died.Two dams were destroyed.
A Lancaster bomber yesterday conducted a flypast over Lincolnshire to mark the 80th anniversary of the mission.
Severn Trent Water said: “We are working on ways to manage demand on our water supply network in the long term.
“We’re exploring a huge range of different options... none of which are certain.”