SAFETY work at a reservoir has been postponed until next year.

Buckshole Reservoir in Alexandra Park, Hastings, was set to have a new outlet pipe installed, which would allow it drain quickly if there was a problem with the dam.

The reservoir is also due to have a new replacement spillway channel and aged structure, as the original has deteriorated beyond repair.

The work was initially planned to start at the end of August, but due to delays “out of Hastings Borough Council’s control”, the start date had to be pushed back until early 2022.

The Argus: Buckshole Reservoir in Alexandra Park, HastingsBuckshole Reservoir in Alexandra Park, Hastings

A council spokeswoman said uncertainties around winter weather and higher rainfall and reservoir levels, which could cause additional risk and delay, have meant postponement is “necessary”.

“The improvement works to the reservoir spillway are needed to ensure the ongoing safety of the reservoir and to bring it up to the Environment Agency’s new standards,” she said.

“Some preparation and access work has been completed for the Buckshole Reservoir safety improvement project.”

The construction areas near the reservoir will remain fenced off over the winter and will be checked regularly, while residents directly impacted by the work will be contacted when a restart date is confirmed.

“Once the works are completed, trees will be replanted to replace the trees which had to be removed to allow the work on the reservoir to take place,” the spokeswoman added.

An ecology assessment was undertaken earlier this year to ensure negative impacts of the works are avoided, while discussions with Historic England regarding the heritage interest of the park have also taken place.

The three reservoirs within Alexandra Park were built in Victorian times to supply water to Hastings.

Buckshole Reservoir, the largest of the three and the last to be built, is now more than 150 years old.

The reservoirs no longer supply drinking water, but they are still an asset to the town, providing a focus for fishing, recreation and wildlife.