Edgbaston Reservoir is a 70-acre site, situated in Ladywood, less than two miles from the city centre. It is a designated Local Nature Reserve and a site of historic importance, designed and built by Thomas Telford in 1827 to supply his new Main Line Canal, replacing James Brindley’s less efficient meandering contribution.
With its 1.75 mile perimeter and its broad expanse of water, it offers an abundance of activities for the people of Birmingham, accommodating sailors, rowers canoeists, windsurfers and sea cadets on the water and walkers, joggers, cyclists, contemplatives, nature-lovers, bird-watchers and families around its edge. It is a haven of peace and quiet and a place of natural beauty.
Friends of the Reservoir came together in 1990 to protect and promote the Reservoirs’ many beneficial characteristics and enhance them where possible. The group are also keen to guard against any developments which could be detrimental to the whole ethos of a very special place.
They are supporting a beauty spot, a local nature reserve and a site of historic importance. The Council are having difficulties to keep the place going because they are cash strapped. One option is for the Council to commercialise the site or have some form of housing development to generate revenue.
Birmingham City Council put in a supplementary draft plan with lovely CGI pictures demonstrating possible scenarios appealing to commercial interests. Friends of Edgbaston Reservoir along with other community stakeholders have instead produced its own plan in line with the Council’s stated environmental policies, much more in keeping with the nature and ethos of the Reservoir site. This vision plan can be viewed here.
Birmingham Open Spaces Forum: Save Edgbaston Reservoir Group
Facebook: Save Edgbaston Reservoir
