The Reservoirs
|
During the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, the cities of Leeds and Bradford experienced a period of rapid growth. This growth necessitated the establishment of a plentiful and reliable source of water and several reservoirs were built in the Washburn Valley between 1875 and 1936. Lindley Wood came first in 1875, then Swinsty in 1876, Fewston in 1879 and finally Thruscross in 1966. The creation of these reservoirs changed the landscape of the Washburn Valley forever. Villages, mills and land were all lost to the waters of the
reservoirs. In turn, the landscape around the reservoirs now
provides habitats for many species of flora and fauna and has
created recreational opportunities.
Swinsty and Fewston Reservoirs both offer
exceptional trout fishing. Stocked and managed by Yorkshire
Water, tickets are available from a dispenser in Swinsty Moor Car
Park. The area around the reservoirs is extremely
popular with walkers and there are many fine views from the
network of paths. The walk around Swinsty is suitable for people of
most abilities as most of the route is surfaced and may be
tackled in ordinary shoes.
Thruscross reservoir is the uppermost of the four reservoirs
and is surrounded by woodland offering views down the
valley. Before the reservoir was completed in 1966, the
majority of the village of West End had to be demolished before
being flooded.
|
|
