Reservoirs
In the eighteenth century, Liverpool's water was supplied by three wells. These were in the area that today forms part of the city centre. The most important well was situated roughly where St Georges' Hall is now.
In the nineteenth century, these wells and an additional reservoir on Smithdown Road could not supply enough water for the city's growing population. Therefore, between 1870 and 1880, Liverpool was one of the first cities in England to look beyond its boundaries for water. The new supply came from Lake Vyrnwy in Wales, and to get it here one of the greatest civil engineering projects in this country's history was needed.
Some small reservoirs were also built to provide short term supplies. They were usually built on higher ground so that water could flow downhill, under gravity, saving the cost of pumping. In built up areas, these are usually covered from view as they are at Kensington Gardens, Dudlow Lane and Aubrey Street (Everton), all built in the 1850's and 1860's.
Of these, the one at Everton is the most famous because of its elegant Grade II listed sandstone water tower. It still performs a vital role in the city's water distribution system, and is also a focal feature and landmark for the Everton community due to its special night-time illumination.
Liverpool was one of the first authorities to recognise that clean and safe water makes a clean and safe city. In the early years, water was piped using hollowed out elm trees. However, it is the steel and iron piping installed in the nineteenth century which has helped bring water to our homes and businesses for over 100 years.