WEST BALDWIN SIPHON PROJECT
Work has begun on the West Baldwin Siphon Project; an important reservoir safety scheme at West Baldwin Impounding Reservoir.
West Baldwin Impounding Reservoir is one of the Island’s critical drinking water sources, supplying around 70% of the Island’s drinking water.
The project involves installing 360 metres of 500mm siphon pipeline to improve the reservoir’s emergency draw-down capability if it is ever needed.
Why this work is needed
The scheme is required in the interests of reservoir safety and forms part of our statutory duties under the Water Act 1991.
If needed in an emergency, the siphon will help lower water levels more quickly and safely than is currently possible.
The new pipeline route is as follows:
- The upstream section of the pipe will be submerged in the reservoir
- The pipeline will cross the junction of East Baldwin Road and West Baldwin Road
- It will continue through the field to the west of East Baldwin Road
- The pipe will terminate at the bank of the River Glass
How the work will be carried out
The five-month contract is commenced and is planned to be completed by 30 October 2026.
The timing of the works has been shaped by environmental and operational requirements. Work in the river is normally only permitted during the summer months, while work within the reservoir is best carried out when water levels are typically lower.
The reservoir will not be drained to carry out these works.
We procured the contract through a competitive tender process, and the work will be delivered by local contractors and sub-contractors, with support from an off-Island diving specialist where required.
Road access and local impacts
Part of the pipeline will need to be installed within the road, requiring a temporary three-week road closure in July.
The closure will affect minor roads in the area and the impact on the wider public is expected to be limited. Local residents have already been informed about the planned works.
Public access to the dam may be restricted for a period while the works are taking place.
Key points about the local impact are:
- Most of the work will take place in and around the reservoir, the roadside junction and the adjacent field
- One nearby property may be affected by the road closure, but will not be completely cut off
- A route plan will be published with this update showing the extent of the works
The project value is £1.4 million.
Programme and key dates
The current programme is:
- Start on site: 15 June 2026
- Road closure period: Three weeks in July 2026
- Planned completion: 30 October 2026
Any traffic management arrangements will be shared in advance.
Keeping people informed
We will share updates via the website as the project progresses, including a route plan showing the extent of the works.
