Walthamstow Reservoirs are a complex of ten water bodies constructed between 1853 and 1904 by the East London Waterworks Company, and have been an integral part of London’s water supply ever since. Positioned in the heart of the Lea Valley, the site’s importance for biodiversity, and in particular a wide range of birdlife, is second to none.

Historically, the reservoirs were used and maintained purely as an essential element in the supply of water to London’s homes, businesses and industries, but in recent decades the site has been recognised as much more than just a cluster of reservoirs with a single purpose.

The site’s designation as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), on account of its national and international importance for breeding, migratory and wintering waterbirds, meant the site got legal protection. Hopefully, this legal protection will ensure that the wildlife and greenspace value of the site is maintained and enhanced for future generations.

In addition to having SSSI status, the reservoirs are designated as a Special Protection Area (SPA) and a RAMSAR site. These international conservation designations highlight the global importance of the site for wildlife.

So, the template of varied habitats, amazing wildlife and an enthusiastic local community is already there…