Fishing Lakes and Lake Naturalisation

Protecting our ponds: A new approach for a changing climate

During summer 2025, long dry spells caused several ponds to dry up. This led to low oxygen levels and sadly, fish deaths. These ponds depend on rain to stay healthy, and with climate change, these problems are becoming more common.

Most of these ponds weren’t originally made for fishing. Over time, local people added fish, and some areas became informal fishing spots. In a few cases, angling clubs were involved, but with limited success.

To tackle these issues, we’ve been working with the Environment Agency to create a long-term plan for managing ponds across the city. Together, we’ve identified five ponds that regularly face problems, are not suitable for fishing, and often raise concerns from the public.

What’s changing?

We’re going to naturalise the following five ponds:

  • Acreswood- Brammer Street, Tunstall, ST6 7QY
  • Bridgetts Pool- Brookfield Road, Trent Vale, ST4 6PW
  • Bolton Gate- Weston Road, Weston Coyney, ST3 5ET
  • Tiddlers- Arbourfield Drive, Eaton Park, ST2 9LU
  • Corkies Pool- Vivian Road, Fenton, ST4 3LN

This means we’ll focus on creating healthy habitats for wildlife and wildfowl, and fishing will no longer be allowed at these sites.

What will be done?

  • Remove fishing pegs
  • Add plants that boost biodiversity and oxygen levels, helping ponds stay healthy during dry weather

These changes will help make the ponds safer, more sustainable, and better for nature.

What you need to know

  • These five ponds are not managed by fishing clubs and are not classed as community fishing waters.
  • We’ll share updates through signs on-site, local communications, and media.
  • We’ll also let you know about alternative fishing spots in the city:
    • Central Forest Park – No day ticket needed, just a rod licence
    • Hanley Park – No day ticket needed, just a rod licence
    • Visit the council’s website for other waters managed by fishing clubs (membership or day tickets may be required)

Have your say

If you’d like to share your thoughts on these plans, please email: environmental.client@stoke.gov.uk

Deadline: 16th January 2026

All feedback will be considered, and final plans will be published on our website by the end of January 2026.