Welsh Water has confirmed the opening date for the once-popular Lisvane and Llanishen Reservoirs in Cardiff. After seven years of restoration work, the site will reopen as a visitor attraction on Friday, July 28. The aim of the project is to create a hub for health and wellbeing while protecting and enhancing the biodiversity of the area.
Built in the late 19th century, Llanishen Reservoirs cover 110 acres of green and blue space in the north of Cardiff. The reservoirs were once a popular spot for sailing, fishing, and walking, and even Olympic sailor Hannah Mills OBE learned to sail there. However, in 2001, the reservoirs faced the threat of being drained and fenced off due to failed planning permission attempts for housing development. The Reservoir Action Group (RAG) was formed to fight for the reservoirs’ future. Their efforts were successful, and in 2016, Welsh Water purchased a 999-year lease for the site to restore and protect it.
Now, visitors to Lisvane and Llanishen Reservoirs can enjoy exceptional food experiences, sports activities, walks, and wildlife. The site offers stunning views across the reservoirs from a new two-storey visitor center, which will feature a café during the day and a restaurant opening in September. In addition, there will be a variety of water activities such as open water swimming, canoeing, stand-up paddle boarding, and kayaking. Visitors can also explore 5km of circular paths, a woodland Story Trail, and bird hides.
The restoration of Lisvane and Llanishen Reservoirs adds a fifth site to Welsh Water’s portfolio of visitor attractions in Wales, which includes Llys-y-Frân, Elan Valley, Llyn Brenig, and Llandegfedd Lake. The redevelopment has been supported by the Reservoir Action Group (RAG) and Natural Resources Wales. Funding of £932k from the Welsh Government’s ‘Enabling Natural Resources and Well-being’ (ENRaW) scheme and a £250k Community Woodland grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund have contributed to the paths, green infrastructure, and woodland area.
Volunteers from the Friends of Cardiff Reservoirs (FoCR) have played a crucial role in preparing the site for visitors. They have provided support with woodland management, while rangers have been busy constructing footpaths and the visitor center. By volunteering, community members like Roger Worland have not only helped protect the environment but have also formed connections with fellow nature enthusiasts.
Richard Cowie, the chair of RAG, expressed delight at the reopening of Lisvane and Llanishen Reservoirs, emphasizing the collaborative effort between RAG and Welsh Water to achieve this outcome. Julie Morgan, a Member of the Senedd for Cardiff North and long-time supporter of the fight to save the reservoirs, shared her excitement and anticipation for the area to become a thriving community space once again.
The reopening of Lisvane and Llanishen Reservoirs as a visitor attraction will provide residents and tourists with the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the site, engage in outdoor activities, and appreciate the remarkable biodiversity it offers. Welsh Water’s commitment to restoring and preserving the reservoirs demonstrates a dedication to sustainable development and community well-being. As the public eagerly awaits the opening on July 28, the prospects of enjoying leisurely walks, water sports, and scenic views draw excitement and anticipation from visitors near and far.
