Kielder Water reservoir in Northumberland was planned in the 1960s to meet increasing water demands from industries in Teesside. The site was chosen for its wide valley with steep slopes, high annual rainfall, sparse population, and poor quality farmland. However, when it opened in 1982, many of the industries had declined and the water demand was lower than expected, making the reservoir project seem unnecessary. Despite initial doubts, Kielder Water now provides reliable water supplies to northeast England and beyond, while also benefiting tourism and the environment.

1. Case Study: a dam and reservoir
Kielder Water, Northumberland
Planned in the late
1960s to satisfy an
increase in demand
for water from the
then growing
chemical and steel
industries on
Teesside.
Opened in 1982.

2. Lesson Goals
To know
Why the site for Kielder Water in Northumberland
was selected
To understand
Why the reservoir was needed and why this site had
suitable characteristics.
To be able to
Identify the issues resulting from the location of the
reservoir and the sustainability of water supplies.

4. Why this location?
Characteristic of the site Benefit of this
A valley with a wide floor
and steep sloping sides
High annual precipitation
(1370mm)
Very sparse human
population
Poor quality farmland far
from the markets
Rough grazing and
coniferous woodlands

5. In summary...
 Physical factors were favourable
 Apparent economic need was strong
 There were few social, economic and environmental
issues associated with large dam construction

6. Did it all work out well?
In the time between planning the reservoir and
opening it many of the industries in North East
England had gone into decline. The demand for water
had therefore fallen significantly and there was no
real need for an extra reservoir.
A white elephant project?

7. Draw a sketch
map to show how
rivers are used
for water
transfers from
Kielder Water

8. The Benefits
North East England
enjoys the most reliable
water supply in England
Even in the driest
summers (e.g. 1995)
restrictions on water use
are unknown in the region
A pipeline has been
constructed to supply
water for use in York
Over 250,000 visitors are
attracted by outdoor
activities each year
Kielder Forest, surrounding
the reservoir, is the largest
woodland in England
Jobs in the water industry,
tourism and forestry exist
where there was only
previously farming
Biological studies have
shown no adverse
effects on wildlife in
connected river systems

9. Key word:
Does Kielder provide sustainable water supplies?
Explain your answer

10. Plenary
Why was the Team Valley not chosen
as a location for the reservoir during
planning in the 1960s?