Welsh Water is set to begin construction of its visitor attraction hub at Lisvane and Llanishen reservoirs in Cardiff.
The work to create a two-storey visitor hub will begin at the end of January 2022, and will feature changing rooms, showers and toilets for watersports, training rooms for local community use, as well as a café with views across both reservoirs.
Lisvane Reservoir was built in the late 19th century and is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) for overwintering birds; and the embankments of both reservoirs are designated SSSI for waxcap fungi. Much of the reservoir grassland and scrub woodland outside the SSSI is designated as a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC).
Once completed, the Welsh Water site would bring back sailing to the reservoir, along with an array of watersports.
The company has appointed Cardiff-based firm BECT Building Contractors to deliver the building work for the project.
Pete Perry, Welsh Water Chief Executive, said: “The start of this work is a major development in our efforts to bring this cherished community asset back to its former glory and make it more accessible for everyone. It will give people the opportunity to reconnect with water and our beautiful environment, providing opportunities for people to enjoy an array of watersports and enjoy the health and wellbeing benefits that getting outside can bring.”
Leader of Cardiff Council, Councillor Huw Thomas, said: “This is an exciting milestone in the journey to bring two of Cardiff’s iconic reservoirs back to life. Returning public access to the site has long been an ambition of this Council, and we will continue to support Welsh Water in making that happen.
“The development of a brand new visitor hub will not only provide an area in our vibrant capital where the community can enjoy the wonderful nature around them, but a place for people to improve their own health and well-being and engage with the site through activities and volunteering opportunities.”
