Heaton Park Reservoir Pumping Station

Heaton Park Reservoir Pumping Station is a pumping station built between 1954 and 1955 by the Manchester City Architect's Department, under Chief Architect Leonard C Howitt, for the Manchester Corporation Waterworks. The structure features large relief work by Mitzi Cunliffe, which is signed and dated 1955. It is constructed from Yorkshire sandstone, with Westmorland greenstone from Broughton Moor used for the relief elements. The roof is not visible above the dentiled overhang, and the building is a small square structure housing pumps.

The carved relief presents a highly stylised depiction of the transportation of water from Haweswater to Manchester, showcasing contemporary figures supporting the pipeline, along with a flat relief designed to be viewed from below. This artwork commemorates both the workers who constructed the aqueduct and the origin and path of the water supply. Beneath the relief, five plaques provide a history of the Haweswater supply.

Access to the pumping station is via steps on either side, which are flanked by short walls topped with contemporary railings and pylon lights. The entrance features five-part timber folding doors. The interior is completely preserved and fully lined in beige marble, with contrasting green marble skirting that continues as a door surround. Behind the Cunliffe mural, there is a wood relief section in sycamore illustrating the 82-mile route of the pipe, along with other joinery made of teak. The original control system includes cast iron valves and built-in electric fires with decorated grilles.

The project of bringing water to Manchester from the new reservoir at Haweswater was a significant undertaking that cost £14,000,000. The relief work and mural were designed to impart a 'monumental' character to this remarkable achievement. The building is noted for its exceptional combination of architectural design and fine sculpture, with the latter being a dominant feature in this small structure. The materials used and the reliefs symbolize the accomplishment of transporting water from the Lake District to Manchester.