The Rochdale Canal opened in stages as sections were completed, with the Rochdale Branch the first in 1798 and further sections in 1799. The bottom nine locks opened in 1800 and boats using the Ashton Canal could reach Manchester. Officially, the…
The reservoir was designed by J. F. Bateman for Halifax Corporation to provide a water supply from Widdop to Halifax, 8 miles away.
It was constructed under an Act of Parliament passed in 1868. The first sod was cut on 26th July 1871 by Mayor H. C.…