Why is Blue Bend beach off limits to anglers?

Recreational anglers who are allowed to fish under eased lockdown regulations are mystified about why they are denied access to Blue Bend beach in East London.

A barricade at the beach near the Blue Lagoon Hotel was put up before lockdown.

However, in terms of the eased restrictions, provided anglers have the requisite permits, they are permitted to fish.

But the municipality says all beaches are closed under lockdown alert level 3.

“My main concern, along with other fishermen in the area, is that although we have permits we don’t have access,” angler Michael Mackley, who lives near the beach, said.

On June 1, the department of environment, forestry and fisheries declared that hunting and self-drive visits to private or public game reserves and national parks, as well as recreational fishing, would once again be allowed.

Anglers should ensure they have a valid permit, and all regulations relating to social distancing, health protocols, movement and prohibition of groups and gatherings apply.

Angler Bruce Dewing said it was strange that other spots were open to fishing but not Blue Bend.

“It’s within walking distance from my house, and it would be nice for it to be open.

“I now have to go to Gonubie to fish, which is a bit of an inconvenience,” Dewing said.

Beacon Bay Ratepayers Association chair Malcom Symons said: “It just makes no sense to not have a uniform policy.

“The residents I have spoken to who reside in the area and others who walk in the area are not impressed.”

DA councillor Marion Mackley said she was aware of the anglers’ concerns.

“I have reported the matter to beach amenities. I don’t know why residents cannot go down to the beach [and] fish.

“It has been blocked off since the beginning of lockdown,” Mackley said.

Buffalo City Municipality spokesperson Samkelo Ngwenya said beaches were closed under level 3 in accordance with a decision by the BCM command council, chaired by Xola Pakati.

“The closure of the Blue Bend boardwalk is in line with this decision.

“We are aware that fishing is allowed and we are accepting everyone who has a fishing licence to fish, but that doesn’t mean we must open these areas as people with ulterior motives would take advantage,” Ngwenya said.

All BCM beaches are closed for leisure and tourism.

Ngwenya said: “The command council is open to review all its decisions guided by structures like the command centre and various work streams where all stakeholders are represented and are welcome to make representations.”