Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons – geograph.org.uk
The Canal and River Trust has announced a multi-million-pound upgrade to the Hill Top Reservoir in Huddersfield amidst an unprecedented water crisis which is expected to continue into May.
The Spring of 2025 is set to be the driest in 90 years, with reservoirs across the region plummeting to critically low levels as Yorkshire is experiencing its driest combined February, March and April on record.
March saw the lowest level of rainfall since 1961, while April experienced only half of its usual precipitation, ringing alarm bells in the local community and environmentalists.
John Dickson, a local resident in Huddersfield says he’s ‘been mindful, turning taps off quickly and having shorter showers. “Climate change probably plays a part; the weather has been a lot more unpredictable in recent years”. He added: ” It feels like Yorkshire Water is always reacting instead of planning ahead, people would be more confident if there was better communication.”
The extreme lack of rainfall has contributed to low reservoir levels at reservoirs such as Baitings, with alarmingly low levels of water exposing a submerged packhorse bridge.
As of May, water levels in the reservoir are currently at 73.1% compared to the average of 89.5% for this time of year. Ground investigations are underway, with construction expected to begin in Spring 2025 and completion due in Autumn 2026.
How you can reduce water use
As Huddersfield faces this water crisis, the community is urged to conserve water and support initiatives aimed at improving water retention. Nicci Russell, the chief executive of Waterwise, the UK’s leading independent voice on water efficiency, stated that “the issue stems from human behaviours in regard to the climate emergency with this being heightened by an increase in water usage when there isn’t as much water available in hotter months”.
Some simple tips to reduce using water at home include
- Using a watering can instead of a hose.
- Keep on top of weeds in the garden as they grow quickly and compete with plants for valuable moisture.
- Hold off on doing the washing until you have a full load for the machine and using the eco setting if you have one.
- Turn off the tap when you brush your teeth – this can save 10 litres every time.
For more advice on saving water go to www.yorkshirewater.com/your-water/save-water/