Concerns over fishing pontoons in Yarm
Fishing platforms or pontoons described as critical for the safety of swimmers and canoeists in Yarm may be kept or replaced under plans being considered by Stockton Council.
Concerns have been raised about plans to remove the pontoons as part of improvements to riverside paths and Yarm High Street using government levelling up funding. A councillor who represents the town said the pontoons had served fishermen and users of the Tees well over many years, some were in poor condition because of vandalism and lack of maintenance, and the proposal to remove them was proving unpopular with residents and visitors.
Councillor Andrew Sherris said it was a “hot topic” with emotions running high among river users. He said: “At a time when we should be encouraging safe use of our beautiful river and surroundings this is certainly a backwards step.
“These are not just fishing platforms but serve a critical role in allowing canoeists, paddle boarders and wild swimmers a safe way in and out of the river. The use of these recreational activities have rapidly increased in recent years and we should be providing replacements not just for Yarm residents but those from further afield and visitors to the town.
“I would call for a rethink on this one, even if it means scaling back something on the High St.” Leading council members have spoken of looking at the feasibility of keeping the pontoons or evaluating the cost of replacing them.
Councillor Richard Eglington, the council’s cabinet member for regeneration and housing, responded to Cllr Sherris’ concerns: “The first phase of improvements to Yarm High Street focuses on improving accessibility along True Lovers Walk by resurfacing the existing footpath and repairing root damage. As part of this work, it’s been proposed to remove the two existing fishing pontoons along the route.
“However, further evaluation will take place to understand the potential cost and deliverability of replacing the damaged pontoons.”
Cllr Paul Rowling, deputy council leader and cabinet member for resources and transport, said last week that they had listened in public consultation and refined proposals for improving Yarm High Street: “A lot of people are reaching out to me to fully support the scheme, including a number of people who live off the High Street very much in favour.
“We have made some slight changes regarding the appearance of the planters that are going to be installed. It was more around the finish, to keep in with the wider character of the High Street.
“We’ve listened to that and we’ve changed that. Residents and businesses will be aware of how the works are going to be. We’re looking forward to getting cracking with that.
“We’re also looking at the feasibility of the fishing pontoons as well, about keeping them. That’s a piece of work that’s ongoing at the minute. It’s on our radar.”