Edgbaston Waterworks

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Edgbaston Waterworks

Edgbaston Waterworks is a historic waterworks located in Edgbaston, a district of Birmingham, England. The waterworks were constructed in the mid-19th century to supply clean water to the rapidly growing population of Birmingham.

History

The Edgbaston Waterworks were designed by the renowned engineer James Mansergh and were completed in 1870. The waterworks were part of a larger effort to improve public health and sanitation in Birmingham, which had been suffering from outbreaks of diseases such as cholera and typhoid due to contaminated water supplies.

Architecture

The main building of the Edgbaston Waterworks is an example of Victorian industrial architecture. It features a distinctive Italianate style, with a tall chimney and ornate detailing. The building is constructed from red brick with stone dressings, and it has been well-preserved over the years.

Operations

The waterworks originally drew water from the nearby Edgbaston Reservoir, which was created by damming a section of the River Rea. The water was then filtered and treated before being distributed to homes and businesses throughout Birmingham. The Edgbaston Waterworks played a crucial role in providing a reliable and safe water supply to the city.

Present Day

Today, the Edgbaston Waterworks is no longer in active use as a water treatment facility. However, the site remains an important historical landmark and is preserved as part of Birmingham's industrial heritage. The building is occasionally open to the public for tours and educational programs.

Significance

The Edgbaston Waterworks is significant for its role in the development of modern water supply systems and its contribution to public health improvements in Birmingham. It is also an important example of Victorian engineering and architecture.

See Also

• Birmingham
• Edgbaston
• James Mansergh
• Victorian architecture
• Public health