"The city of Leicester was faced with a growing population at a time when, after epidemics in 1831,1832 and 1847, cholera was a major concern. Thornton Reservoir had been built in 1854, but another source of clean water was needed.
In 1866 Parliament passed the Leicester Waterworks Act, enabling the construction of Bradgate (later Cropston) Reservoir.
Why here? -
In the words of the chief Engineer, Mr Hawskley, the advantages of Bradgate over the other sites under consideration (Bardon, Groby and Bagworth) were:
" the finest stream, the best water, the cleanest drainage and, under all consideration except that of pumping, the most advantageous scheme is the Bradgate "
Who lost land? -
In September 1867, 180 acres of land was purchased for a cost of £24,000.
Most of the land required for the reservoir, dam and waterworks belonged to the Bradgate Estate. Lord Stamford insisted that a stone wall be built around the boundary to separate the deer park from the reservoir, instead of the proposed iron railings. This wall, 1,500 yards long was eventually built at a cost of 8s 10d per yard.
Some of the Bradgate Estate land was part of the deer park, but most was farmland let out on very long leases. One farmer, Joseph Allen, lost virtually all his farm. Two members of the Matts family had theirs considerably reduced in size.
The Gamekeeper’s house and land, together with a nearby bridge, were also in the area to be flooded. The house, together with its stables and outhouses, were demolished and the bricks sold.
Part of the footpath between Anstey and Hallgates was submerged, as was the site of the old rabbit warren (or conery).
The Dam -
A dam was built at the eastern end of the shallow valley. The dam is 760 yards long and rises to a height of 51 feet at its highest point, which gives a depth of water of 38 feet.
The dam is constructed of Swithland slate with a centre core of puddled clay, obtained from land to the north side of the reservoir still known as "Puddledyke".
The road from Cropston to Hallgates was redirected over the new dam to make space for the new waterworks and filter beds.
The first section of the original road, from its junction on Station Road between The Thatch and Corner Cottage, still exists.
Navvies at Cropston -