Carp Fishermen in vow to clean up city wharf.

Fishermen have pledged to transform an area plagued by rubbish, algae and weeds into a wildlife haven and a pleasant area for residents and visitors to enjoy.

A syndicate of fishermen is now leasing the exclusive fishing rights to Atlantic Wharf in Cardiff Bay.

A sign establishing the members-only fishing rights of the group, called Atlantic Wharf Fisheries, was erected at the water’s edge last week.

As part of its agreement with landowner Associated British Ports, the syndicate has agreed to ensure the surface of the water – which is rich with species including carp and pike – is kept free of litter.

The group’s fishery manager Tom Barlow said members were keen to go the extra mile to keep the area clean and tidy.

He said: “The wharf is a real treasure. Not everyone knows about it, but the fish there just thrive. It has some of the biggest carp in Wales, they go up to 42lb, and there’s a great diversity of fish.

“Our ambition is to make it a pleasant place for everyone to go. There’s some great amenities there – a great pub, a lovely hotel and just a nice place to walk around.

“The wharf is a fantastic area, not only for fishing but also just as a general body of water. We want to clean it up.

“We’ve taken responsibility for clearing the surface water and around the perimeter of the lake. We’re not just interested in looking after the fishing, but all the wildlife and the whole area.

“We’re trying to deter some of the more unsavoury characters from the area, such as the drug users that used to use the bushes and the roadside, and it seems to be working. I really think the lake has become quite a bit safer just through people being there who want to take care of the place.”

The syndicate is limited to 50 members, and at the moment has around 20 places remaining. Money from the membership fees covers the costs of the lease, with anything left over helping to fund clean-up equipment.

As well as meeting for a litter pick almost every Sunday, members want to work in partnership with other groups concerned with the wharf, such as Swan Rescue and the Environment Agency.

Last week, the syndicate was consulted over the dredging of weeds from the water in preparation for dragon boat racing there yesterday.

Mr Barlow said: “The weed is very important to the eco-system of the wharf so the council consulted with us about how much weed would be taken out.

“People don’t always realise that the weed is vital to the lake, but it’s actually an important part of the eco-system.”