22
Sept
Parking charges at reservoirs to remain following extended trial
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Four years after announcing a parking charge trial at its Washburn Valley reservoirs, Yorkshire Water has finally said the scheme is to be retained permanently.
The trial at Swinsty, Fewston, and Thruscross reservoirs was introduced in January 2024, but as recently as May 2026 a Yorkshire Water spokesperson told us the company was still "carefully reviewing the trial".
In the interim, it has been investing the proceeds from the parking fees in nature conservation, countryside management, and the continued funding of its 10-strong ranger team.
Lee Otter, head of land and property at Yorkshire Water, said:
Our reservoirs are important outdoor spaces for local communities and visitors, and it’s vital that we care for them and make them as enjoyable and safe as possible for people and wildlife alike.
By introducing a small parking fee, we, and especially our rangers, have been able to carry out a range of projects to that effect.
Over the course of the trial period, the circular route around Fewston Reservoir has been refurbished, with a particular focus on improving access for disabled customers, and the implementation of more thorough inspections around reservoirs has led to quicker identification of issues and completion of maintenance.
The ranger team works with volunteers and partner organisations to manage habitats around Yorkshire Water’s reservoirs by controlling invasive plants, planting wildflowers, mending paths, and completing wildlife surveys.
They also host events on wildlife and the natural environment for local schools, reaching and providing education to hundreds of pupils, as well as leading free events for the public, such as well-being walks and family-friendly, nature-based crafts.
Machines have been installed at Fewston and other reservoirs.
David Spencer, lead ranger at Yorkshire Water, said:
Developing and growing our team over the past three years has allowed us to step-up our approach to maintaining the land around our reservoirs, and importantly, to encouraging local communities to enjoy and engage with the natural world around them.
Parking at the reservoirs now costs £1 an hour, £2 for two hours, £3 for six hours, £5 for a day or £30 for an annual pass.
These fees will remain the same, and Bransby Wilson will continue as the contractor for the car parking operation.
Funds raised from the car parking charges going forward will continue to support the ranger team’s activities, enable better facilities management, and fund local nature conservation.
Mr Otter added:
We hope that visitors to our reservoirs have noticed some of the positive changes that we’ve been able to make since the charges were introduced.
We’ll continue to work hard to improve access, habitats, and overall community enjoyment of the facilities.
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