A significant proposal by United Utilities (UU) to revert several reservoirs in North Cumbria to their more natural states is currently under review, drawing both support for environmental restoration and opposition from local residents concerned about potential impacts, particularly regarding flood risk. The water company has formally submitted planning applications to the Lake District National Park Authority outlining its plans for Crummock Water, Overwater, and Chapelhouse Reservoir, all located near Uldale.
Following United Utilities' decision in 2023 to cease abstraction for public water supply from these three lakes and reservoirs, as well as Ennerdale Water, the focus has shifted towards the long-term future of these water bodies. The submitted plans detail UU's intentions to dismantle existing infrastructure and allow natural processes to reshape the sites.
At Crummock Water, the proposals involve the removal of the existing weir structure, along with associated water collection equipment and supporting infrastructure. United Utilities argues that the current weir offers no discernible flood attenuation benefits for downstream areas. Furthermore, they state that its removal will lower the outlet level of Crummock Water by approximately 1.35 metres, which, according to UU, will create a greater natural capacity for storm water attenuation within the lake itself.
However, these plans for Crummock Water have been met with strong reservations from local residents. Robert Cruickshank, a Lorton resident, has voiced serious concerns about the potential ecological and aesthetic consequences of lowering the lake level. He fears that the receding water will expose unattractive mudflats and rocky shorelines for decades, fundamentally altering the visual character of the valley and negatively impacting wildlife habitats, including those on islands that may disappear entirely. Mr. Cruickshank also expressed surprise at the limited public awareness of these "drastic changes," suggesting a lack of transparency. Notably, he stated that even the Environment Agency has reportedly flagged potential flood risk concerns related to the proposed works.
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In contrast, United Utilities highlights that planned work at Park Beck, a watercourse connected to Crummock Water, is intended to contribute to reducing flood risk. They explain that the lower course of Park Beck is currently a straightened concrete channel, efficiently conveying stormwater directly into the reservoir. The proposed work would involve removing this artificial channel and restoring the natural meanders of the watercourse. UU argues that this naturalisation would slow the rate at which water enters Crummock Water during high flows, creating multiple entry points and disrupting the direct pathway for floodwater to bypass the lake and flow straight into the River Cocker.
The plans for Overwater include the removal of the existing weir and the embankment, as well as the realignment of a short section of White Beck at its confluence with the proposed realigned section of the River Ellen. Additionally, a section of the River Ellen that currently runs through Stockdale Farm is also slated for realignment.
United Utilities asserts that these comprehensive schemes are expected to deliver significant environmental benefits across the wider catchment areas. These anticipated benefits include the restoration of more natural flow regimes along becks and rivers, the rehabilitation of natural salmon habitat, the removal of existing barriers that impede fish migration, and the implementation of additional tree planting initiatives.
Regarding Ennerdale Water, United Utilities reports that the feasibility study for its future is nearing completion, and the project is moving into the outline design phase. The company has committed to organising further public drop-in events during this stage to share detailed plans before a planning application is ultimately submitted.
United Utilities emphasises that they are working closely with key stakeholders, including the Environment Agency, Natural England, the National Trust, and the Lake District National Park Authority, as they progress their plans for each of these reservoirs. Detailed information regarding the proposals for Crummock Water is available online.
The contrasting views surrounding United Utilities' plans for these North Cumbrian reservoirs highlight the complex considerations involved in managing water resources and restoring natural environments, particularly in sensitive landscapes where ecological integrity and flood risk management are paramount concerns for both the utility company and local communities. The scrutiny of these proposals by the Lake District National Park Authority and other regulatory bodies will be crucial in determining the future of these significant water bodies.
For more information visit the United Utilities website.
[Image credit: Steven Fleck / shutterstock.com]