Chair’s Angling Anger Over Fishing Rights Withdrawal
The chairman of an angling association has accused Rhondda Cynon Taf Council of double standards after being told they can no longer fish at Darran Park lake in Ferndale.
January 2006
Press release - Rhondda Leader, 19 January '06
The chairman of an angling association has accused Rhondda Cynon Taf Council of double standards after being told they can no longer fish at Darran Park lake in Ferndale.
The council has notified the Glyncornel Angling Association that it has decided to withdraw their fishing rights at the lake.
Association chairman David Picton Davies said: "since 1958 the association has been responsible for stocking the lake and ensuring that it is kept to a high standard.
"The cost of stocking and protecting the aquatic environment has not been covered by the council but by the association members.
"The lake is recognised as one of the premier coarse fishing venues in the country.
"We have never has a penny from the council and the value of the fish stock in the lake is in excess of £40,000 – and we will be seeking compensation from the authority.
"The council’s leisure service claims on its website that its aims are to achieve an active and healthy borough where sport, recreation and physical activity provide students with the opportunity to participate and have fun.
"This is simply not the case and I feel that the council are using double standards.
"We have never breached any terms of the licence signed in 1963 and have helped to provide a service which includes volunteers to police the lake, which has been it safe and peaceful for the public.
"We also cater for people with disabilities".
The association members have enlisted the help of solicitor Guy Linley-Adams, who has been in touch with pro-angling MP Mark Salter asking for his support.
Mr Adams said: " The association members have looked after the lake for 47 years and I am astonished that the authority has made this decision.
"The lake has been kept to a high standard thanks to the efforts of the anglers and I believe the council has made an error of judgement".
ANGLERS’ ANGER: Anglers Gareth Gwilliam, Mike Moyle and Ian Dando at the Darran Park Lake in Ferndale.
Councillor Graham Thomas, Cabinet Member For Culture, Recreation and Tourism, said: "Darran Park is used and enjoyed by a wide section of the community.
"The lake is in urgent need of a good clean-up so the council has decided to suspend fishing for the forthcoming season.
"During this period, while the environmental improvement works are in progress, all park users, including fisherman, will be consulted about future management arrangements.
"The council is fully committed to ensuring that this important green space is used and appreciated by as many people as possible"
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