Former Llanbradach Colliery brick reservoir

Cadw's description

Location

Llanbradach Colliery is on the steep hillside to the W of the village. The reservoir is sited immediately E of Colliery Road with the engine hall to the N and winding house to the S.

History

Llanbradach Colliery was opened in 1894 by Cardiff Steam Coal Collieries Ltd. Although one of the smaller coal companies, it became one of the largest collieries in South Wales, employing 3000 colliers at its peak in 1913. It continued in operation after nationalisation but was closed in 1961. Ordnance Survey maps suggest 2 main phases of development, the extant structures mostly belonging to the second phase, of the early C20, when most of the original buildings appear to have been replaced. Most of the colliery buildings have survived and have been in use for a variety of light industrial purposes. They form an unusually complete and impressive colliery complex prominently sited overlooking the Rhymney Valley.

The reservoir is first shown on the 1915 Ordnance Survey and supplied water to the adjacent boilers for the winding engine.

Exterior

A reservoir rectangular in plan, approximately 30m by 18m and 6m high. It is constructed of stepped brickwork with rounded corners and is built into the hillside on the W side. Part of the E wall has been breached. Several cast iron pipes project from the walls.

Reason for designation

Included for group value with other associated items at Llanbradach Colliery.