Survey Data
Reg No
20907370
Rating
Regional
Categories of Special Interest
Architectural, Social, Technical
Original Use
Dam/reservoir/basin
In Use As
Dam/reservoir/basin
Date
1950 - 1960
Coordinates
154486, 72196
Date Recorded
09/09/2010
Date Updated
--/--/--
Description
Reinforced concrete dam, built 1952-7, having four-bay double-height generating hall over turbines north-west, and twelve-bay two-storey administration block set perpendicular to generating hall to north-west, with single-storey linking block. Flat roofs. Rendered walls. Square-headed openings with metal casement and fixed windows.
Appraisal
One of two hydro-electric power stations in the Lee Valley, built in the 1950s, to harness the potential of the Lee River through the flooding of the valley and creation of two lakes. Substantial engineering went into the design and construction of these dams, while their associated buildings show clear reference to contemporary architectural design. The constructional possibilites of new materials, including steel and concrete, were embraced, allowing for airy spaces and bands of substantial glazing.