Thirlmere - Storm Arwen update

Like many parts of Cumbria, Thirlmere was severely impacted by Storm Arwen at the end of November.

Since then, United Utilities staff and contractors have been working to assess the damage caused and are now in a position to provide an update to local residents and visitors. 

It is estimated that around 1,500 trees have either been blown over or damaged in Thirlmere forest.  The West Road has also been blocked in multiple locations. 

Due to the scale of the damage caused, United Utilities is planning four phases of work before all paths and roads in the area will reopen for use by the public.  Emergency work has already been taking place to remove trees from properties, assets and major roads and this work is expect to be completed shortly.

Currently the West Road, which runs by the reservoir, will remain closed between Dobgil and the northern junction with the A591.

It is expected that the road will reopen in sections as work is complete.

Footpaths alongside the lake and in the forest have also been damaged or blocked and will be reopened in phases. 

United Utilities is warning residents and visitors to plan their journeys in the area and find alternative routes whilst the work is carried out. 

Vicky Bowman, Woodlands Officer for United Utilities, said: “Storm Arwen has unfortunately wreaked havoc around Thirlmere.  The high winds were northerly rather than westerly which is how they usually come through the valley and a result they brought down around 1,500 trees.   

“With the size of the trees involved and locations they fell, it is going to take time to safely remove them all and open all the paths and the West Road to the public.  We will be working with local agencies to minimise the impact this has on local residents and visitors.”