TAME VALLEY AREA COMMITTEEMeeting: 24 November 2008

The Granting of license to operate angling activities

Report of the Service Director, Regeneration and Leisure

MATTER FOR CONSIDERATION

Granting of a fishing license for the reservoir at Reddish Vale Country Park

INFORMATION

Angling is Britain’s favourite participation sport and is particularly popular amongst young people with 20% of 12-16 year-olds having fished. Although fishing currently takes place at the reservoir in Reddish Vale, current Council staffing arrangements do not allow for extended bailiffing.

Stockport Council entered into an agreement with Stockport and District Anglers’ Federation in 2004 to grant a license to fish the waters at Etherow Country Park in exchange for a yearly rent and the provision of an adequate bailiffing service. This has proved to be satisfactory and allows for excellent uptake of the sport at all levels and a well regulated facility.

It is proposed that the Council enters into a similar agreement covering the waters at Reddish Vale as shown on the attached plan. Members should note that this is not a transaction in land that is proposed, merely a license for the control of angling. Access for ordinary visitors to the park will not be controlled or restricted within the area.

Responsibilities of the license-holder holder would include upholding a number of predetermined covenants.

RECOMMENDATION

That Members support the proposal to seek a licensee to operate fishing rights at Reddish Vale Reservoir.