Angling to return to lido after council review

Angling is set to return to a popular lake after a council review of the site's future.

Fishing was stopped at Wingerworth Lido, near Chesterfield, by North East Derbyshire District Council (NEDDC), which chose not to renew a five-year fishing licence at the lake in June.

Anglers from Clay Cross Angling Association, which held the licence, said they were "shocked" at the decision.

The council's cabinet has now backed plans for angling to return on an interim basis while a longer-term agreement is considered, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

Councillors elected not to renew the licence over environmental concerns, with plans to turn the site into a "biodiversity hub" announced.

However, after pressure from anglers in the area who organised a petition which attracted over 5,000 signatures, the council launched a wider review and consultation in November.

A new plan was put forward by the authority, including ideas to improve biodiversity at the site, which was approved at a meeting on Thursday.

These include plans to inspect water quality, monitor the welfare of the fish and to complete the council's biodiversity improvement plan.

In a statement, the council said: "We remain committed to managing the lido in a way that protects and enhances its natural environment.

"Work will continue with Derbyshire Wildlife Trust on a Biodiversity Improvement Plan to ensure the site is restored and safeguarded for future generations."

The council said it would "begin the process of allowing angling to return to the lido under enhanced, controlled management arrangements".

It added angling will be "carefully regulated and compatible with biodiversity priorities".

It is expected that angling will start at Wingerworth Lido in early 2026, with councillors set to consider a long-term licence in September of next year, depending on the outcome of the biodiversity plan.

Additional reporting by Will Jefford

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