Located to the North-West of the Bath Road in West Reading, the complex covers 5.38 acres (2.18 ha).

[1][2] The site dates back to 1850, when the Reading Union Water Company started construction of the reservoir, which opened in 1852.

This has proved controversial in the surrounding area, largely because it has become home to a wide range of wildlife including protected species.

Species sighted on the site include roe deer, badgers, owls, slow worms, muntjac, foxes, hedgehogs, and a variety of birds and butterflies.

"[4][5] In August 2011, Thames Water announced new plans that would involve the construction of 80 homes on the site, whilst setting aside a small proportion of the land (20%) as a wildlife reserve.