The new platforms, located along the River Thames at Penton Hook Lock Island in Staines, will improve angling access to the river and will allow up to eight anglers to fish at any one time.
The Environment Agency worked with the Thames Anglers’ Conservancy – a group committed to promoting and protecting the Thames – to design the platforms, which took a total of two weeks to install. Members of the group will also carry out valuable volunteer work at the site, maintaining and improving habitat including the purpose-built fish spawning channel and advising on the location of new platforms.
Martin Salter, former Reading West MP and Government spokesman on angling said: “Penton Hook weir stream is one of the places I learnt to fish over 40 years ago. It’s great to see that it’s a popular and productive fishery with good access and improved habitat”.
Matt Carter, Waterways Operation Manager at the Environment Agency, said: “’I’m delighted we’ve been able to provide improved access for anglers at one of the most popular sites on our weir“.
Anglers do however need to remember to purchase their Weir Angling Permits (additionally to the rod licence) which cost £28.50 for adults and £18.90 for Senior Citizens and Juniors (up to 14 years).
