Sheffield Forgemasters' reservoir restoration underway

A reservoir in Wincobank is being restored and landscaped to create a new wildlife sanctuary and green space.

The reservoir, which belongs to Sheffield Forgemasters, has been obscured by heavy overgrowth and its fencing had started to deteriorate, leading to an overhaul of the site, taking the opportunity to upgrade the surrounding parcel of land. 

Working closely with the Friends of Wincobank Hill Charity, and residents of Wincobank, our plan to re-landscape the reservoir up to its boundary, creating specific wild areas which incorporate native, insect-friendly plants and trees.

Steve Marshall, Head of Engineering, said: “We recognised that the Wincobank reservoir, which serves part of our plant on Brightside Lane, needed some attention to keep it secure and safe, but we really wanted to work with local groups to deliver a solution that improves the public realm.

PHOTO: An aerial view of the work being undertaken to restore green space around Sheffield Forgemasters’ reservoir at Wincobank.

“We have had several meetings with The Friends of Wincobank Hill, who take a lot of responsibility for the nearby Roman Hill Fort and the surrounding historical features, to make these sites accessible and wildlife friendly.

“Initially, we will be replacing security fencing around the reservoir and creating a secondary boundary fence. 

“Plans for the landscaping and re-planting are being developed, but we will continue working with local groups to make the space around the reservoir into a wildlife haven and an attractive part of the local environment.”

The reservoir was built in the early 20th.Century, using gravity to feed water from the elevation at Wincobank, down the hill to Brightside Lane, and is still used by Sheffield Forgemasters.

Steve added: “We have a responsibility to protect the area around our reservoir, and a recent incursion onto our property by a property developer, brought our plans to refurbish the fencing forward, but also gave us the opportunity to improve the space for the benefit of residents and visitors to this historic part of the city.”

Wincobank is steeped in history, and the reservoir marks the start of one of the many circular walking routes which take in the Roman Ridge, the Hill Fort and Wincobank Wood.