Vital repair work begins at Ardingly Reservoir

22nd May 2023

The first stage of a two-part emergency project to repair a slipped bank alongside South East Water’s Ardingly Reservoir is getting underway this month.


Heavy gravel bags will be positioned to stabilise the reservoir’s bank – close to Ardingly Activity Centre - which deteriorated in the summer.

Ardingly Reservoir will remain accessible during construction, however a large proportion of the company’s on-site car park will be used to store materials. Three public footpath routes – between the car park and the activity centre – will be closed.

Ardingly Reservoir will remain accessible during construction, however a large proportion of the company’s on-site car park will be used to store materials. Three public footpath routes – between the car park and the activity centre – will be closed.

For safety, Ardingly Activity Centre will only be offering limited activities during this time.

This first phase of work, which is a temporary solution, is due to begin today (22 May) and will continue until mid-July. A permanent solution is being planned.

Chris Love, South East Water’s Delivery Manager, said: “Unfortunately, the slipped bank is continuing to worsen and we must act now to prevent further damage and possible water quality issues.

“This will be a very complex project which involves building a pontoon on the water and using large cranes to lower gravel bags into the water at the base of the bank.

“We’re very sorry the Activity Centre has had to reduce the water sports is offers during period and for the inconvenience the restricted use of the car park and footpaths will cause, but it is important to understand this project is vital to ensure the long-term enjoyment of the reservoir.

“We’re proud of the community we serve and want to do everything we can to avoid disruption to businesses, schools and, of course, our customers.


“We will continue to work closely with anyone impacted by our work to mitigate disruption as much as possible.


“Our talented Engineers are still in the process of planning a long-term fix for the slipped bank and we have several options under consideration.


“We will update the community with the phase two plans as soon as they are available.”

The work forms part of South East Water’s commitment to invest more than £489 million into improving its network between 2020 and 2025.


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