Yorkshire Water is investing £1 million in March Ghyll reservoir, near Ilkley to secure future water supply.
The project, which is set to begin Tuesday 27 May, will see project partners Mott MacDonald Bentley reprofiling and stabilising the reservoir’s embankment, as well as installing monitoring devices and a drainage system. The work is crucial for ensuring the structural integrity of the reservoir and to prevent bank collapses, thereby protecting the local water supply and surrounding environment.
Paul Curran, senior project manager at Yorkshire Water, said:
“Yorkshire Water and delivery partners MMB are carrying out essential works at March Ghyll reservoir from 27 May 2025, through to autumn 2025 to improve the water network and ensure a robust and resilient water supply for future generations.”
In order to complete the works, 7,800 tonnes of aggregates will need to be delivered to the reservoir. This will involve regular transporting of materials up and down the access road from Hunger Hill in Middleton (LS29 0DW).
Paul added:
“We appreciate that this will cause some disruption for a small number of customers, and we are in touch with them to understand how we can minimise disturbances.”

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