Please note that the paths around Lisvane Reservoir are closed for winter between October and March.
Cardiff’s iconic reservoirs
Welsh Water has restored, redeveloped and reopened Lisvane & Llanishen Reservoirs to the public with an emphasis on recreational activities and the conservation of biodiversity.
Restoring the reservoirs and bringing them back into operational use so they can be enjoyed for decades to come has been a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Ecologists have overseen every stage of this work to minimise the impact of the development and protect the iconic wildlife all around – from the waxcap fungi to the overwintering birds.
Vegetation clearance in both reservoirs
Repairing the stone pitching on the inside of the dam wall at Llanishen reservoir
Repairing and replacing valves and pipes needed to operate the reservoirs safely
Reinstating the perimeter fence
Draining Llanishen reservoir to fully inspect it before allowing it to safely re-fill
Introducing a new mowing regime for the reservoir embankments thus enhancing the grassland for the waxcap fungi
The creation of Friends Of Cardiff Reservoirs
In addition to Welsh Water investment in new visitor amenities, the restoration and redevelopment of Lisvane & Llanishen has been made possible thanks to the following funded projects and collaborations with national, regional and local partners.
This project has offered activities to benefit people’s own health whilst also helping enhance the site’s environment and biodiversity including new paths, bird hides, community engagement and social proscribing opportunities.
The Gwern-y-Bendy Woods and part of the Rhyd-y-Pennau Complex restored and enhanced so that it may flourish for decades to come.
Cardiff Metropolitan University
Neath Port Talbot Youth Service
People & Places Refugees and Asylum Seekers
Learn about when were the reservoirs built and what were they for. What was the Taf Fawr Scheme and why were the reservoirs decommissioned?
• READ MORE •Nature trails, Friends group, community engagement programme and social proscribing opportunities for health and wellbeing opportunities in Cardiff.
• READ MORE •Did you know there is a specially-built Welsh roundhouse on site as part of our wide educational offering at Lisvane & Llanishen Reservoirs?
• READ MORE •
