A new destination at two reservoirs in Cardiff is set to open next year, as pictures from the site reveal the progress of the development. Work began earlier this year on transforming the Lisvane and Llanishen reservoirs in the north of Cardiff into a destination featuring a watersports centre and café.
New pictures from the site show the progress being made so far on the new visitor hub being built at the reservoirs alongside widened access roads, new pedestrian paths around the reservoirs, and the café and watersports centre. The two-storey building will have changing rooms, showers and toilets for watersports, training rooms for local community use, as well as the café offering views across both reservoirs.
Plans to bring the Victorian-era reservoirs back to their former glory were first revealed last summer. Dwr Cymru Welsh Water, who took over responsibility in 2016, has spent the past few years restoring the reservoir, after it was drained more than a decade ago.
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While no motorised watersports will be allowed, sailing, kayaking, canoeing and paddleboarding will all be possible. People will also be able to hire watersports equipment, but will not be allowed to bring their own. Once completed, the site is set to be open 364 days a year and, along with three new pedestrian gates, a car park with 114 spaces is being built.
The full list of plans for the site includes:
A visitor hub featuring a café with panoramic views over the reservoirs;
A water sports centre offering activities like sailing and paddle-boarding along with showers and a changing area;
Meeting areas which can be used by schools and community groups;
Walking routes and a nature trail with interpretation to highlight features of interest;
Bird hides ;
Conservation areas;
A learning zone with an outdoor classroom and Welsh roundhouse.
Mark Davies, Head of Visitor Attractions Operations at Welsh Water, said: “We are making great progress in our efforts to bring this cherished community asset back to its former glory. The main building is starting to take shape and over the summer months we have been busy installing our brand new fence and footpaths which will allow people to enjoy the reservoirs in a safe and secure environment.
“Our team are working hard to be able to open this brand-new exciting destination in the heart of Cardiff in 2023. Once opened, it will give people the opportunity to reconnect with water and our beautiful environment as well as enjoy the health and wellbeing benefits that getting outside can bring.”
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