Rural crime team remind local anglers that fishing ban is in place along section of Monmouthshire and Brecon canal

Our rural crime officers are reminding local anglers that a public space protection order (PSPO) is in place along a 200m section of the Monmouthshire and Brecon canal in Old Cwmbran to help preserve flora and fauna, and maintain a sustainable habitat for swans in the area.

PSPOs can be put in place to help prevent anti-social behaviour or issues raised by the local community that cause harm to the area or impact the quality of life of residents.

Officers worked with Torfaen Council to put the year-round order in place last year, banning anglers from fishing along the short 200m stretch along Broadweir Road between three bridges along the canal.

Our rural crime team is committed to protecting land, wildlife and animals and work with partners to tackle crimes like poaching, the theft of fuel and livestock worrying.

PC Mark Powell said:

"As the weather improves and many of us spend more time outdoors in our public spaces in Gwent, we're reminding residents and anglers travelling to #Cwmbran that a fishing ban is in place on a small section of the canal along Broadweir Road.

"I'm sure everyone will be delighted to hear that four cygnets have recently hatched in the area and all four are doing very well. They'll be venturing from the nest this week onto the canal, so I ask that anglers work with us to observe the ban on this section of the canal.

"Discarded fishing tackle and waste can pose a risk to local wildlife, but, with your help, we can reduce risk to the cygnets and other protected species on the canal. Please respect the necessity for the ban so that enforcement action can be avoided."

For more on our work to protect and reassure our rural communities in Gwent, visit: https://www.gwent.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/rc/rural-crime/what-is-rural-crime/