Boss vows to fight to keep Caversham Lakes open

Recently, Martyn Edwards, the head of Caversham Lakes, was dealt a blow when an attempt to stop authority action to remove structures on the site failed.

But Mr Edwards has stressed that Caversham Lakes will remain open.

His company Cosmonaut Leisure lodged an appeal against enforcement action by South Oxfordshire District Council, which is the local planning authority the lake site falls within.

However, the appeal to the government’s planning inspectorate was dismissed, meaning enforcement action to remove structures on the lake site can take place.

READ MORE: Days numbered for Caversham Lakes watersports destination as plan fight fails

On his part, Mr Edwards said: “The lake is not closing and we are taking this to the High Court!!!!

“It is the only venue to offer and provide leisure to all abilities, backgrounds and socio-economic groups.

“Local authorities are failing their communities to provide a venue that provides essential health and wellbeing services to both the local and wider communities for years to come that focuses on child welfare, safety and people of all abilities.

“Reading and Oxfordshire councils are not giving the local and wider community a place that empowers everyone to be better, prevent multiple health conditions, improve mental health, prevent and reduce falls, build confidence, reduce isolation and so much more – but most importantly prevent the drownings on the local rivers which the local authorities do nothing about.

“We are in the drown prevention business and without us being open, there will be a huge spike in drownings, accidents on the polluted rivers on our doorstep including anti-social behaviour in the area.”

Paddle boarding is one of the activities people can book at Caversham Lakes. Credit: Dimitris Vetsikas from Pixabay

Last year, Reading Borough Council supported safer neighbourhood forum training days to educate neighbours in Caversham about water safety.

Both Reading and South Oxfordshire councils have safety information on Water Safety webpages.

A public hearing was held during the appeal process on December 5, 2023, with a verdict being made by planning inspector A Walker on January 18.

An applicant can challenge the decision of a planning inspectorate from the High Court if they believe a planning inspector has made a legal mistake, which Mr Edwards is pursuing.

READ MORE: Future of Caversham Lakes uncertain due to planning law

A planning enforcement notice was issued against Caversham Lakes in March last year calling for staff to end use of the site for recreational and watersport use, and remove all structures such as the office shack, portacabins and more from the site.

Cosmonaut Leisure had attempted to obtain retrospective planning permission to continue operating on the lake, but both of these applications were refused by South Oxfordshire council.

In the meantime, activities continue on the lake.