DISABLED fisherman from Cynon Valley can now cast their lines thanks to a major accessibility project at Aberdare THanks to British Disabled Angling Association.
BDAA were asked to carry out an access audit on a game fishery to help improve access for disabled people in Wales, the combination of the expertise of BDAA, EA and needs of the disabled club members were all involved from the initial project meetings. The end result is proof that initial consultation is essential in correct planning and delivery of specialized angling facilities. Wales on line reported how much a success it has been.
DISABLED fisherman from Cynon Valley can now cast their lines thanks to a major accessibility project at Aberdare.
The Aberdare and District Angling Association have just completed the first stage of scheme which makes access to Nant Moel reservoir at Llwydcoed more disabled friendly via new boardwalks and fishing platforms. Rob Sheldon, of the AADAA, said: “Two young men who were in wheelchairs and who had a passion for fishing joined our association. “It became clear that they had limited access to fishing areas particularly in the summer when the water was low.” The association made contact with Environment Agency Wales, Angling Developments and technical support officer Richard Sheppard who arranged for the British Disabled Angling Association to do a disability audit of Nant Moel Reservoir.
Meetings were held with Michael Clyde and Richard Sheppard, Environment Agency Wales, John Norris and Richard Poole of Dwr Cymru, and David Hart and Hywel Price Groundwork Merthyr-Rhondda-Cynon-Taf who all agreed to support the project. Funding from the Environment Agency Wales Sustainable Fisheries Fund enabled the project to go ahead.
Groundwork Merthyr-Rhondda-Cynon-Taf carried out the works and the first stage of the project is complete. Further funding has now been secured to enhance the project by creating wheelchair access to the far side of the reservoir which is now under way and will assist in increasing the independent activity of people in wheelchairs.
