Date set for lido fishing return after campaign

A date has been set for fishing to return to a lido in Derbyshire following a campaign from anglers.

Fishing was stopped at Wingerworth Lido, near Chesterfield, by North East Derbyshire District Council, which chose not to renew a five-year fishing licence at the lake in June.

Anglers from Clay Cross Angling Association, which held the licence, said they were "shocked" at the decision.

Fishing will now return from 1 April after the council and the club reached a "constructive, short-term agreement" while starting the next phase of ecological work to protect and enhance the site.

Councillors elected not to renew the licence over environmental concerns, with plans to turn the site into a "biodiversity hub" announced.

However, anglers in the area organised a petition that attracted more than 5,000 signatures, prompting the council to launch a wider review and consultation in November.

Following discussions between Clay Cross Angling Association, The Angling Trust, the council and Derbyshire Wildlife Trust, a new licence has been agreed which includes "clear, proportionate conditions" designed to complement the emerging biodiversity improvement plan for the lido.

The Angling Trust said the safeguards ensure fishing can continue "in a controlled way" that protects wildlife and supports habitat recovery while the biodiversity improvement plan is being developed.

Bill Parkin, chairman of Clay Cross Angling Association, said: "For over 25 years our members have put their heart and soul into caring for Wingerworth Lido, and it is fantastic that we can now put the past few months behind us and local people can once again enjoy fishing at this beautiful place."

North East Derbyshire District Council leader Nigel Barker added: "For me, it has always been about balancing the statutory responsibilities of the council with activities that the community wants to see on the site.

"We've listened carefully to residents, local groups and expert organisations to find a practical way forward that works for people and for nature."

Barker added an ecological survey is to be carried out while developing a plan to improve biodiversity at the lido.

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