The settling pond was excavated in 1962 and used in the operation of the fish farm downstream. Aerial view settling pond, 1962  Before the pond was built the water race would  frequently block with gravel and sand.  Fish farm workers had to clean the race daily. With the settling pond as a part of the system, the water was then diverted into the pond from the race, and the gravel or sand would drop down  and ‘settle.’  A screen was...

In 1962 the settling pond was dug just a few hundred  metres downstream from the weir. The water was diverted  before it travelled down the race to the fish farm. The  gravel and sand would drop to the bottom and the water  was reasonably clear. A screen was installed to catch  rubbish to stop it going down the race.

Originally the water was pumped some 3000 ft or around 900  metres to the reservoir at the top of the town with no running  costs.  The reservoir is about 270 feet or about 80 metres above  the river. The scheme covered an area from just south of the river  along to the old pier. It also included taps along the foreshore,  the recreation ground, (village green) and the public hall.

The pipes that carried the water were constructed of wood staves, wrapped in heavy gauge steel coil, and then covered in creosote soaked canvas. Throughout the 1920s, local residents had agitated for an up   to date water supply and holiday makers had long complained  about poor facilities. Water had been a scarce commodity in Bridport particularly during summer. Tanks would often run dry and water was carted from above the tidal flow further...

By the early 1950s it gradually became clear that Bridport’s  water supply system needed upgrading as the town  continued to grow.   The pump was often broken down and many attempts  were made to repair it. Water supplies were inconsistent  and not able to deal with growing demand. A new motor  was installed in 1952 with only limited success. By the 1960’s a new pump house was installed near the  Elizabeth street entrance.  This is still...