This site uses cookies to provide you with a more responsive and personalised service. By agreeinging to this statement you consent for us to use cookies that ensure the marketing we do is relevant to you. Please read our cookie notice for more information on the cookies we use and how to delete or block them.

The Construction of the Reservoir

< Back
  • cutting.jpg
    click image to view document

    Metropolitan Water Board
    Island Barn Reservoir
    Ceremony of Cutting the First Sod
    October 24th, 1908

    In 1900 the Lambeth Water Authority obtained an Act of Parliament authorising the construction of a reservoir designed by their engineer, Mr T F Parks, to hold approximately 1,000 million gallons, and the necessary land was acquired by the company. 

    Read about the ceremony of 'Cutting the first Sod' in this official presentation from the Thames Water Archives, or a report in 'The Engineer' of 30th October 1908 (go to page 460).

    opening.jpg
    click image to view document

    Metropolitan Water Board
    Island Barn Reservoir
    Opening Ceremony
    November 4th, 1911

    Competitive tenders having been invited for the work, the contract was let to Messrs Robert McAlpine and Sons at the sum of £152,727.  The actual construction of the reservoir was commenced on 24th October 1908.

    Read the official recording of the opening ceremony from the Thames Water Archives, or an account of the completion in "The Engineer" of 10th November 1911 (go to page 494), and of the opening ceremony, in "The Engineer" of 10th December 1911.

    see more photographs of the reservoir construction here

    close

    JUNIOR SAILING SCHOOL

    image for add

    BOOK NOW right