They were constructed between 1848 and 1884 to a design by John Frederick Bateman to supply the growing population of Manchester and Salford with fresh water.
There was originally a seventh – Hollingworth Reservoir – which was abandoned in 1990, and has become part of the Swallows Wood nature reserve.
[3] The reservoirs are listed from upstream to downstream i.e. from east to west: Quayle, Tom (2006).
The Thirlmere water scheme of the Manchester Corporation : with a few remarks on the Longdendale Works, and water-supply generally.
- popularising lecture, with copious plans & elevations (of Longendale chain as well as Thirlmere scheme)