The Environment Agency has issued an environmental permit (discharge consent) to drain down the remaining water in Llanishen reservoir.
What has happened so far?
Western Power Distribution (WPD) began drawing down the water in Llanishen Reservoir on 26 February 2010 by siphoning water over the reservoir embankment to the Nant Fawr stream. The water level within the reservoir has been lowered by approximately 4 metres.
On 19 July, the Environment Agency issued a permit to WPD which allowed them to drain down the remaining water. On 18 October, it was confirmed that the reservoir had been drained.
Although the reservoir is now empty and discharge activities are complete, the Environment Agency is continuing to inspect the site to ensure that the company’s ongoing pollution mitigation measures are appropriate.
What's the latest news?
WPD has drawn down the reservoir to carry out safety recommendations made by a specialist reservoir engineer.
The reservoir will remain under the safety supervision of the engineer. In the unlikely event that the reservoir becomes unsafe, the appointed engineer has the power to call for an inspection under the Reservoirs Act. As part of this inspection process, legally binding recommendations to improve safety can be made. The Environment Agency has powers to take any action necessary to protect people and property from an escape of water.
Further information
We have produced a decision document as part of our permit determination process. You can download it, as well as the risk assessment and environmental permit, by clicking below.
We have also produced a briefing note to outline the current situation. You can download it by clicking below.
Would you like to know more?
For more information, call us on 08706 506 506 or email:
