The Canal & River Trust have today announced their proposal to restore Toddbrook Reservoir, following the consultation on the different restoration options last year.
In the consultation, the majority of local residents preferred Option A, to restore the reservoir by creating a new spillway on the north east corner of the reservoir.
Local MP, Robert Largan has welcomed the news that the reservoir restoration is due to start this year and Toddbrook is expected to be fully re-open to the public by early 2024.
The MP has committed himself to continue working with both local residents and the Canal & River Trust to reduce the disruption and impact of the restoration works.
The plans for the permanent repair of Toddbrook Reservoir features the construction of:
• a new side channel weir, where water will overflow into a ‘tumble bay’
• a new spillway channel off the left (north / sailing club) side of the reservoir dam
• a stilling basin at the end of the spillway to receive water
• a channel through the park to connect to the River Goyt in the existing location
This will then allow the CRT to de-commission the existing auxiliary spillway, and grass over the reservoir dam, as well as filling sections of the existing bywash channel to return as usable space.
The latest proposals can be read in full here, which includes useful plan drawings and artist impressions: Restoring Toddbrook Reservoir | What's happening in the North West | Canal & River Trust
The Sailing Club will have to be relocated because of these proposals. However, the Canal & River Trust has made a clear commitment that they will make sure this happens and provide all the support necessary to help the club relocate slightly further down Reservoir Road.
Robert Largan MP commented:
“Today marks an important step forward in the restoration of the reservoir. I am pleased that work is due to begin this year, with an aim to fully re-open to the public by early 2024.
“I know some residents will be concerned about the disruption the works will cause. But the reality is that, whichever restoration option was chosen, there will be significant disruption during construction. That was always going to be the case when restoring a 183-year-old dam, especially when you consider how much Whaley Bridge has grown around the reservoir in that period.
“During Storm Christophe earlier this year, we saw the huge pressure put on the River Goyt because Toddbrook Reservoir cannot be properly used until it is fully restored.
“I’m really pleased that the Canal & River Trust has listened to local people and modified their proposal, to avoid the play area in Whaley Bridge Memorial Park.
“My priority is to work with the Canal & River Trust and local residents to reduce the disruption and impact of the restoration works.
“I’m also determined to make sure we don’t just restore the reservoir but improve it, with a legacy that future generations of Whaley Bridge residents can enjoy.
“That’s why I’m pushing for both a circular path around the reservoir and a hydro renewable energy scheme if possible.”
Photo taken prior to social distancing restrictions
