A new fishing and picnic area on the banks of the River Ely has now opened for the start of the fishing season.
The new site has been created with disabled access and cycle stands for members of the public to make the most of the natural surroundings or enjoy one of Wales’ most popular participation sports. Access to the area has also been enhanced with the resurfacing of the Ely Trail, from Dunleavy Drive to the railway bridge east of Penarth Road which is also proving popular with cyclists and walkers.
The work has included the creation of eight new platforms while an additional picnic area overlooking the river has also been installed along the trail. A new cycling link will be created from the Ely Trail to Ferry Road to provide a safe place for cycling away from the busy main roads. Further along the river bank an otter-holt is being built by the Park Rangers in association with Keep Wales Tidy.
Since the launch of Cardiff Harbour Authority fishing permits earlier this year, fishing in the bay has never been so popular. The new fishing and picnic site will improve access and encourage participation and adds to the other four purpose-built, disabled-friendly angling platforms on the River Ely just above Penarth Road.
The adjacent Grangemoor Park, one of Cardiff’s best kept secrets following its opening in 2000, was built on the site of the former Ferry Road tip. It has become an increasingly important open space for wildlife and provides an attractive place to visit, offering wonderful views across the city.
A management plan is currently being developed to guide the park’s long term future and work will take place over the next year to provide additional seating, signage, interpretation and promotional material, improved footpaths and parking.
Work to the new area was jointly funded by the SEWRT (South East Wales River Trust), Innovate Trust, and section 106 monies from Parks and Strategic Planning services and has been designed in association with the Environment Agency. In addition, the Countryside Partnership Programme has also funded the family-friendly picnic area overlooking the river and new cycle stands, as part of the wider commitment to Cardiff, Sustainable Cities. Money from the Council’s cycling budget provided funding towards the new cycleway and upgrade to the existing trail surface. The scheme was built by the Cardiff-based firm Landcraft Projects Ltd.
Councillor Nigel Howells, Executive Member for Sports, Leisure and Culture, said: “I was delighted to officially open the new fishing and picnic area which demonstrates the fantastic collaboration between the Council and external organisations.
“Having launched ‘Fishing for Everyone’ back in February this year, we are again showing our commitment to opening up the bay and the rivers for fresh water fishing. This attractive amenity area has retained an uninterrupted corridor for wildlife along the river bank and is an accessible location to provide local people with the opportunity to experience this very enjoyable pastime right on their doorstep. The new cycleway and improvements to the park will ensure this area becomes a popular destination for Cardiff residents. We look forward to welcoming novice and enthusiastic anglers to the area.”
Fishing permits can be purchased from Cardiff Bay Visitor Centre (Tube), Channels View Leisure centre and local angling shops. For further details please visit www.cardiffharbour.com.
