Hunshelf Bank reservoir
Location/Address
Just off Nine Acre Lane at the highest point of Hunshelf Bank (311m), north of Stocksbridge.
Type
Description
Circular water tank approximately 30m in diameter managed by Yorkshire Water. The brick walls are around 2m high with brick 'buttresses' every 2m or so, creating a castellated effect that is very recognisable throughout the valley, on the skyline. There is a small wooden door on the SE side up some steps; the stone door lintel bears the date 1905.
It is not clear what the interior looks like and Yorkshire Water has been unable to explain if or how they use it today, but it was originally the water supply for Samuel Fox's steelworks, with a rising and falling water main shown on mid 20th century works plans.
Statement of Significance
Asset type
Built StructureAge
Assuming the datestone reflects its construction date, it was built around 1905 - the same time as Underbank reservoir was being constructed.Rarity
Reservoirs built specifically for industrial use rarely survive the demise of the works and this is a rare example.Architectural and Artistic Interest
The style does not reflect chunky stone reservoir architecture, but rather the typical brick building style of the time. In all likelihood it was built by Fox's as it was for their own use. The castellations are a delightful touch and suggest it was intended to be seen.Group Value
The water tank, with its rising and falling mains linked to the steelworks, was part of a planned project to secure sufficient water for steel production, should the reservoir fail to release enough into the Little Don river - water was absolutely critical to various stages of steel processing. Valves at Unsliven Bridge just below Underbank reservoir controlled the flow of water. A pumphouse in the works pumped water from the river up to the tank. So the reservoir forms an integral part of the development of the steelworks.Historic Interest
The water tank is an unusual feature in a rural setting, and demonstrates the critical importance of water supply to industries along Sheffield's rivers, in their evolution from water-powered mills.Landmark Status
The battlemented brick walls of the circular reservoir are visible on the skyline around the valley - it is a much loved landmark.
Date Listed
03 May 2024
Last Updated
27 Mar 2024
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