Angling club in stormy waters

People living in Witton Park in Bishop Auckland, will take their protests to a meeting of Wear Valley District Council's Development Control Committee tonight.

They claim that proposals to build a two-storey building and car park at Wadsworth Fishery, in the village, will cause noise and pollution and affect public footpaths.

Dale Daniels, who recently wrote a book about Witton Park, said that the development by Bishop Auckland District Angling Club would also detract from the natural beauty of the area.

He said: "There would be no objections to a small club house that anglers could use but this is a monstrosity of a two storey building. They say it would enhance the village but this is of no benefit to locals, it is for the privileged few who can afford the fees for the angling club.''

Mr Daniels, 56, also expressed concerns over access for emergency services such as fire engines to the site, and said it would compromise the wildlife corridor and disturb habitat.

The plans are part of a National Angling Development Plan and will develop the site to become a regional angling centre for the North-East.

Bishop Auckland District Angling Club was given outline planning permission for the extension in June this year and is currently creating two further lakes on the south bank of the River Wear.

The proposed building, which is of a modern design, will have storage space, office accommodation, meeting room, kitchen and toilet facilities and a function room.

The plans have also allowed for a classroom as the building will be required for educational purposes.

As well as a car park there will be new footpaths and access ramps around the lake for disabled anglers.

Council planners have recommended approval for the project but residents have submitted 14 letters outlining their concerns.

Mr Daniels has been given permission to speak to councillors at tonight's meeting and says he hopes they will listen to what the residents want.