Charity fishery plagued by thieves wants on-site security

FREQUENT thefts from a charity fishery near Gloucester show need for on-site security, planners have been told.

Community interest company Catch a Smile has applied to Gloucester City Council for a mobile home – where the fishery manager can live.

Catch a Smile, based at Elmore Lane West, Stonebench, helps people with disabilities and special needs to enjoy fishing.

The application says the mobile home is needed for security, animal welfare, out of hours maintenance and sustainability.

In the past, thieves have stolen an oxygenation pump, fish stock, plant, equipment, machinery and tools which are a huge cost to the charity.

“As well as thieves, further trespassers have been identified on site including youths who cause damage, set fires and swim in the lake,” the planning statement reads.

“Not only is this a security and criminal damage issue, but it is also extremely dangerous for the youths. A homeless person has also been found sleeping in the shelters on site.”

They also say dogs have been entering the site from the footpath which is causing a great deal of stress to the animals within the petting zoo.

“As the popularity of the fishing lakes increase, there is a requirement to stock the lakes in greater numbers,” the planning statement reads. “The result of this is that the water conditions are less stable, requiring regular monitoring to ensure that oxygen levels are at an appropriate level to ensure the health and wellbeing of the fish stock.

“If oxygen levels are left unmonitored and drop below recommended conditions, there is a high probability that the fish will suffer and perish. Predators, such as large birds and mammals, are prevalent. A presence on site serves as a deterrent.”

The council is expected to consider the mobile home by December 21.