Four new angling platforms will give anglers a new spot to fish as the season starts thanks to the Environment Agency and Reading Borough Council.
The new platforms, which are located in Caversham, next to Hills Meadow car park near Reading Bridge, are part of a larger initiative by both authorities to improve angling access to rivers.
The platforms will allow up to 12 anglers to fish at any one time and provide a good even surface for easy accessibility. The Hills Meadow has nearby parking, with easy access to the river and good facilities close to the nearby play area.
Andy Went, a fisheries officer at the Environment Agency, said: “These platforms are in a perfect location to increase the accessibility for those interested in fishing. We hope they will be a very visible reminder to those using the park just how much fun it is to go fishing and how easy it is too. Pick up a rod licence from the Environment Agency, get yourself a rod and a map of where to fish and you’re good to go.
“We have also identified a further 20 sites along the Thames, above Marlow, that could provide good accessible fishing.
“We are hoping other authorities will be as helpful as Reading Borough Council in improving the opportunity for all to be able to fish on the Thames.”
Graeme Hoskin, Reading’s lead councillor for Culture and Sport, said:
“The Thames is a wonderful asset to this town and we’re determined to increase opportunities for Reading people to enjoy it. I think these platforms are a great addition.”
Buying a rod licence couldn’t be easier – there are around 15,000 Post Offices and other outlets which sell them direct. For a small additional charge they can also be purchased over the phone (0870 1662662) or from our web site – www.environment-agency.gov.uk/rodlicence any time, day or night.
