CONCERNS over unauthorised fishing and a lack of patrols to prevent such activity has led to the introduction of club-managed angling on a park’s lake.

As of Wednesday, a ban on fishing on the main lake at Fairlands Valley Park in Stevenage will be lifted.

Stevenage Borough Council (SBC) said it has made the decision in a bid to address some of the concerns expressed by park users, residents and anglers about unauthorised fishing, fishing-related injuries to wildlife, and a lack of proper bailiff patrols of the waters.

Welwyn Garden City Angling Club (WGCAC) will manage the fishing activity at Fairlands, as well as provide coaching sessions and organised fishing competitions for those who are interested.

Bailiffs will be on site to check that all anglers over 12 years old have a rod licence and purchase day tickets. Under 12s do not need a rod licence, but must be accompanied by an adult.

Night-time fishing is not allowed, except by the bailiffs on duty.

Anybody not complying with the rules will not be permitted to fish.

Cllr Howard Burrell, SBC’s executive member for children and young people, culture, sport and leisure, said: “Fishing is a popular sport among Stevenage residents and this is a fantastic resource that we hope will be well-used.

“The appointment of a management organisation can only be beneficial in both encouraging correct use of the lake and in combating some of the problems that we have experienced in the past.”