Elan Valley: A History

The Elan Valley is a landscape shaped by both nature and human activity. For thousands of years, people have lived, travelled and worked within these upland valleys. In the late nineteenth century, however, the area underwent dramatic change when the Elan Estate built a network of dams and reservoirs to supply water to the rapidly growing city of Birmingham. This project transformed the landscape, flooding homes, farms and communities, and remains an important example of how decisions about natural resources can have far-reaching social, environmental and economic impacts.

Today, the Elan Valley provides opportunities to explore a wide range of themes within the Curriculum for Wales, including history, geography, science, engineering, sustainability and biodiversity. It also encourages learners to consider different perspectives on the use of land and natural resources, including questions about ownership, conservation, industrial development and the transfer of Welsh water beyond Wales. Through photographs, maps, historical sources and local stories, learners can investigate how people and places change over time while developing enquiry, critical thinking and communication skills.

The Elan Valley is a very special place with an unique landscape, story and history. Elan Links: People, Nature, Water is a National Lottery Heritage funded scheme which aims to secure this heritage and boost the opportunities available in the Elan Valley for the future.

Key Concepts:

• Humanities
• Science and Technology
• Health and Well-being
• Languages, Literacy and Communication

• Lifelong Learning