River Derwent

It has been brought to our attention by Natural England that anglers may have been digging out sections of the riverbank to make fishing pegs on both banks of the river at Howsham (below the bridge).It is understood that anglers were observed digging out sections with a spade and throwing the bank soil into the river. This would therefore appear to be a breach of the legislation protecting SSSIs. As you may be aware, the river is a nationally and internationally protected site and much work has been undertaken in recent years to reduce sedimentation and ensure the banks have a mix of riparian vegetation. Removing vegetation and throwing soil directly in the river would be contrary to the objectives for the site.
Therefore members are reminded once again that in general the River Derwent is a protected site and any operations regarding alterations to the banks would require the formal consent of Natural England. If this consent is not gained it cold have quite serious repercussions on the perpetrators, and also the Amalgamation. Digging out “armchair” pegs for your seat box is not allowed.