RESERVOIRS will continue to be open for use for recreational purposes following a public consultation on their use.
The Isle of Man Water and Sewerage Authority has concluded activities currently undertaken on the reservoirs represent an ‘acceptable risk to water quality, safety and the reservoir structures’.
Authority chairman John Houghton MHK said the authority had to be mindful that any human activity on or around a reservoir is considered by the World Health Organisation to be a potential source of contamination.
Accordingly, this has to be taken into account when considering requests from the public for events on or around reservoirs.
In a statement, Mr Houghton MHK said: ‘The authority has completed a public consultation exercise, carried out surveys of each reservoir for insurance purposes and held discussions with stakeholder groups on the recreational potential for each reservoir.
‘It is evident, from the various consultations that have taken place, that those activities which occur on foot, such as walking, running, shore fishing and dog walking are the pastimes most regularly enjoyed by the public and the activities which the authority considers represent an acceptable risk to water quality, safety and the reservoir structures.’
He said: ‘The authority is now engaged in the process of working with stakeholders to seek out opportunities to enhance the visitor experience to the reservoirs, having regard to the conflicting requirements of the various interest groups and the needs of the authority to protect the quality of the source waters, the safety of the reservoir structures and embankments and ultimately the authority’s statutory function to supply wholesome drinking water.’
Mr Houghton added: ‘With your help, the authority will be pleased to continue supporting those activities which occur on foot around the reservoirs.
‘Members of the public wishing to enjoy these pastimes are asked to consider the other recreational users and to enjoy the reservoirs responsibility, abiding by the signage at all times.
‘Clubs and organisations may continue to approach the authority for specific permission to hold special events on or near the reservoirs.’
Evidence of public liability insurance must be provided.
Read the statement at www.gov.im/water/ or pick up a printed copy from the authority’s headquarters in Tromode Road, Douglas.