The Environment Agency is helping to improve disabled angling access at two sites on the Thames regions rivers

Following on from the success of the fishing platforms installed at Penton hook in 2011, Cookham weir stream is being added to the annual Environment Agency Lock and weir fishing permit. 

Terry Moseley and Carey Sutton of the BDAA

The British Disabled Angling Association (BDAA) represented by President, Terry Moseley and Access Officer, Carey Sutton were invited to view the proposed site and conduct an audit to review it’s potential for disabled anglers. With disabled toilet facilities already on site it is hoped that Cookham will be a valuable new addition to the the permit later this year.

Details can be found Here for the current fishing opportunities at EA lock and weir sites on the Thames including details on how to obtain a permit

Angling access improvements at Gogmore Farm have seen the Environment Agency  teaming up with Runnymede Borough Council to improve and encourage angling access on the River Bourne at Chertsey. 

With EA funding, July saw work start on 3 new fishing swims which, in addition to able bodied anglers, will facilitate access to wheelchair users.

Tony Babbage OBE (centre) with Runnymede Borough Council’s Peter Winfield and Faouzi Saffar

Distinguished local resident Tony Babbage OBE, a lifelong angler and campaigner on community issues recently attended the site along with Runnymede Parks and Amenities Manager Peter Winfield, Council Engineer, Faouzi Saffar and EA Fisheries Officer Stuart Keable. The swims will be officially opened later this summer.