Two clean-ups have been organised to bring run-down Farnley Reservoir back to its former glory, following pressure from local residents and Leeds West MP Rachel Reeves.
Yorkshire Water is taking action at the reservoir on the Ring Road in Farnley tomorrow (Tuesday, August 1) and 30th August.
The clean up will be led by around 25 Yorkshire Water staff and Team Kirkstall volunteers, who have experience of cleaning up the banks of the River Aire in Kirkstall following the 2015 Boxing Day Floods.
Everyone is welcome to participate in the day-long event and equipment will be provided along with tea and biscuits afterwards on both days.
Leeds West MP Rachel Reeves said:
“It is frustrating for people who just want to enjoy what should be a nice space to have to put up with the reservoir being run down and neglected.
“We saw flooding at Wortley Beck on Boxing Day 2015 and the reservoir was designed to alleviate this for nearby properties, so ensuring it is well maintained is important for both aesthetic and practical purposes.
“I hope Yorkshire Water will learn lessons from Farnley Reservoir in listening to people who live near their assets and acting quickly when there are reported problems and concerns. I now expect and look forward to more regular maintenance of the reservoir so local residents can be proud of it again.”
News of the clean-up has been welcomed on social media.
Philip Towler posted on Facebook:
“Wonder if starting a ‘Friends of Farnley Reservoir’ would be useful? Get Yorkshire Water, Leeds City Council, local schools and the local community together to make this site reach the potential that it should.”
And Paul Ratcliffe added:
“Missed opportunity with Farnley reservoir. It could have been the Yeadon Tarn of the West, boating, canoeing, fishing….a council with no foresight.”
Farnley Balancing Reservoir was built in 1973 to control an irregular flow from Farnley Beck.
It’s a haven for wildlife. In the winter months the reservoir regularly attracts migrant wildfowl such as pochard, teal and goosander. During the summer, flocks of swallow and swift can be seen swooping over the water. There are also bats in the area.
I agree with Philip…
Keep me posted of developments.