Crunch time for fishing at Wingerworth Lido as Council decision looms

Anglers across Derbyshire are hoping for good news next week as North East Derbyshire District (NEDDC) councillors prepare to decide the future of fishing at the popular Wingerworth Lido.

A recommendation on proposals from the Angling Trust to lift the controversial fishing ban is expected to go before the Environment Scrutiny Committee on Monday, 8th December. The meeting follows a public consultation which saw a staggering 70% of the respondents vote in favour of reinstating fishing on the Lido.

The Angling Trust has been working closely with Clay Cross Angling Association (CCAA), who have cared for the water for over 25 years prior to the termination of their lease in January. The treatment of the club prompted a national outcry — including a petition organised by local angler James Duffy, and widespread lobbying of councillors by residents, the Countryside Alliance and the Angling Trust.

There are now clear indications that the council accepts there is little justification for continuing the ban on angling at the Lido and is exploring a solution that balances environmental and recreational interests.

Earlier this week, the Angling Trust wrote to members of the Environment Scrutiny Committee, debunking false claims made by opponents of angling and urging councillors to reinstate the CCAA lease.

Jamie Cook, Angling Trust CEO commented:

“Throughout this process the focus of the Angling Trust has been to support Clay Cross Angling Association and to open a dialogue with NEDDC to explore options for the return of managed angling to Wingerworth Lido. We have provided examples of successful partnerships with wildlife trusts and angling on designated nature reserves to show that the wider biodiversity objectives for Wingerworth Lido are in no way incompatible with sensibly managed recreational fishing.”

Martin Salter, Head of Policy at the Angling Trust, added:

“We also provided evidence to counter some of the myths and falsehoods that have been put forward by those wishing to see angling banned, or indefinitely suspended, at the Lido. If the Council truly wishes to maximise stakeholder engagement, including from anglers, then singling out one activity for early termination is not the way to build trust or partnership. We sense that there is now a genuine opportunity and desire to bring the community together on this issue.”

The Angling Trust will provide further updates following the Committee’s decision on 8th December.

You can read the Angling Trust’s latest representation to the council here.