Lying beneath the vibrant North Adelaide park lands at the corner of O’Connell Street and Barton Terrace is a marvel of engineering that many Adelaidians might not even know exists, the North Adelaide Service Reservoir.
This incredible underground structure, often described as a “cathedral to water,” has been quietly supporting the city since 1879, and its story is as fascinating as its architecture.
2024 South Australian Historian of the Year, Dr Julie Collins, says the reservoir was built to address a crucial need in the growing colony, providing a consistent water supply to the Port Adelaide area and western suburbs.
“It’s intricate and stunning brickwork is why the reservoir continues to stand and service South Australia 145 years on from its inception,” she said.
“It is truly beautiful.”
Spanning approximately 33.5m in length and width, it boasts an impressive internal height of about 5.8m. The intricate design features finely constructed red-brick arcades, creating a unique underground space that reflects both technical prowess and aesthetic appeal.
Constructed by the state government’s hydraulic engineers department, this impressive red-brick infrastructure, with it’s elegant piers and arches, showcases a stunning blend of functionality and artistic whimsy.
It’s no wonder that it was heritage listed in 2017, says Dr Collins, recognised for its role in the evolution of SA’s water infrastructure.
The reservoir’s significance goes beyond engineering, it symbolises a commitment to public health that has shaped the city.
In the 1800s, water supply and sanitation were critical for ensuring the wellbeing of Adelaide’s residents. So, the introduction of a reliable sewage system further underscored the need for such infrastructure, making the reservoir an essential part of the city’s development.
“The introduction of underground water systems was also for the health and safety of residents,” Dr Collins said.
Fast forward to the 21st century, the North Adelaide Service Reservoir continues to play a vital role for the city. With a capacity of 4.7 million liters, the reservoir supplies water to around 100,000 people even over a century later!
Dr Collins says the style of the reservoir was common across the globe in the 1800’s but this is one of the few standing after another in North Adelaide was filled in in the 1970’s.
“The small green pointed-roof building – beside the mound hiding the underwater reservoir – is a great way to spot where the network connected across the city,” she said.
Though a key part of North Adelaide’s history, this hidden gem still remains a crucial component of Adelaide’s water supply network.
SA Water emphasises that the reservoir continues to serve approximately 100,000 people and is “a critical part of SA’s water supply network.”
According to a report from the South Australian Heritage Council, this infrastructure represents “a significant achievement in hydraulic engineering within South Australian history”.
The report highlights that it is “a unique South Australian example of an underground reservoir.” It praises the design and construction quality, noting that the utilitarian building features piers and arcades typically found in grand neoclassical architecture, like a cathedral.
The report goes on to say that the quality of its design and finish is especially impressive given that the structure was never meant to be seen or accessed by the general public.
While the reservoir operates mostly out of sight, it’s a testament to Adelaide’s rich history.
So whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or just curious about Adelaide’s hidden treasures, next time you stroll through the North Adelaide park lands take a moment to appreciate what lies beneath your feet.
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