The concrete dam was completed in 1960, and the lake has a net capacity of approximately 113,000,000 gallons (514,000,000 litres).

[2] The reservoir is principally fed by the small river that starts near Ruthvoes, about 4 miles (6 km) to the east.

From the reservoir's outlet, the river flows to St Columb Porth, where it enters the sea.

Construction of the reservoir and dam was carried out by the Newquay & District Water Company.

It was officially opened on 16 June 1960 by A. C. McLellan, then president of the Institution of Water Engineers.