The service reservoir - more than just a concrete box?

Overview

The storage of treated potable water in service reservoirs forms a key part of the water supply infrastructure. These reservoirs, though retaining relatively small volumes of water when compared with the raw water dam stock, are often located close to built-up areas and therefore represent a potential risk to the community. The forthcoming changes to the Reservoirs Act 1975 to reduce the volumetric threshold is likely to result in a greater number of these service reservoirs potentially being encompassed within the Reservoirs Act.

The presenters seek to give an overview of the significant variety of Thames Water’s service reservoirs. The presentation will show the historical development of these structures along with some of their key features, issues, strengths and potential vulnerabilities.

An overview of Thames Water’s service reservoir stock and surveillance practices along with key issues that need to be considered when inspecting will also be presented.

The presentation will conclude with a case history of Barrow Hill service reservoir, located near Regents Park. A reservoir has occupied the site for some 200-years and over that time has experienced a number of significant issues throughout its life. The reservoir was reconstructed as a large raised reservoir in 2019, making it London’s newest service reservoir.