Cardington Spillway

Cardington Spillway is a man-made water feature located in Bedfordshire, England. It is situated within the Cardington Artificial Slalom Course, which was constructed in the 1980s for canoeing and kayaking competitions. The spillway serves as an integral part of the course, providing a controlled release of water from the adjacent lake.

The spillway itself is a concrete structure with a series of steps or chutes that allow water to flow downwards in a controlled manner. This design helps to regulate the flow of water, preventing flooding and maintaining the overall stability of the surrounding area.

The water body connected to the spillway is a lake, which serves as the main source of water for the Cardington Artificial Slalom Course. The lake is relatively small in size and is surrounded by lush greenery, creating a serene and picturesque environment. It offers a tranquil setting for various recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation.

In addition to the lake, there are also smaller pools and ponds within the Cardington Spillway area. These smaller water bodies provide a diverse habitat for a variety of plant and animal species, including freshwater marsh plants and aquatic birds. The presence of these wetland ecosystems enhances the biodiversity of the area and provides valuable habitat for wildlife.

Overall, Cardington Spillway is an important water feature in Bedfordshire that serves multiple purposes. Its function as a spillway ensures the controlled release of water, while the adjacent lake and smaller water bodies provide recreational opportunities and support a diverse range of plant and animal life.