Angling Trust thanks angling community for response to Bathing Water Regulations

Angling Trust CEO Jamie Cook has thanked member clubs and fisheries who responded to our call for action by putting in a submission to the government’s Bathing Water Regulations consultation in December.

Around 180 submissions were made from the angling community raising issues with the proposed reforms regarding the establishment and monitoring of bathing sites, including formal representation from the Angling Trust.

However, despite all our efforts, it appears the proposals will still go ahead.

In his letter to clubs and fisheries, Jamie said:

“Let me first thank you for taking the time and trouble to make sure that the concerns of the angling community were placed in front of ministers in both London and Cardiff. Unfortunately, it appears that they are proceeding regardless with these proposals.

“As we stated in our formal Angling Trust representation, we have issues with the proposed reforms regarding the establishment and monitoring of bathing sites. We take particular issue with ‘Wider Reform 1’ which could see canoes, kayaks, rowing boats and even powered craft designated as ‘bathers’ and disturbing fish and fishing on small rivers where currently no navigation is allowed. You may recall that we outlined these concerns as follows:

“1. Environmental Risks: Redefining multiple water users as ‘bathers’ increases the risk of disturbing sensitive habitats, including legally protected fish spawning sites, and may even allow water companies to delay much-needed environment improvement investments.

“2. Legal and Ecological Oversights: The lack of an impact assessment leaves critical issues around riparian rights, navigation, and ecological protection unaddressed. Threatened species such as Atlantic salmon and other SAC species may face increased pressures.

“3. Impact on Anglers’ Rights and Enjoyment: Designation of multiple watercrafts as ‘bathers’ without due consideration for existing navigation laws and fishing rights could escalate bank-side conflicts and trespass which degrades the natural environment.”

Although this first outcome is disappointing, it does hold out the prospect of further engagement with stakeholders such as the Angling Trust and we have been promised a meeting with the water minister Emma Hardy to discuss how any new regulations will be implemented without causing the damaging impacts that we have highlighted as potential risks.

Jamie added:

“Please be assured that we have not given up on the prospect of achieving the safeguards necessary to protect fish and fishing and we will keep you informed of the progress we are able to make. Once again, thank you for your support.”

The recent government announcement to proceed can be found here