Dwr Cymru Welsh Water is extending the fishing suspension at Llwyn Onn reservoir near Merthyr Tydfil due to low water levels.

The company said the decision had been taken for safety reasons as the water level has exposed the reservoir’s steep banks and extensive areas of mud. Despite recent rainfall, the water levels at Llwyn Onn remain low and with little or no rain forecast the situation is unlikely to improve in the near future.

Richard Poole, environment, conservation and recreation controller for Welsh Water in south east Wales, said,

“We regret having to suspend fishing at Llwyn Onn but this is necessary for the safety of the public. The low water level means that there is now a risk posed by the steep banks leading to exposed areas of thick mud.

“We are aware of rumours circulating that the closure is a cost cutting measure by Welsh Water. This is incorrect, as the closure actually means reduced income for the company. This is not a decision that has been taken lightly, but one that has been made with the safety of the public in mind.”

Cantref reservoir, which is upstream from Llwyn Onn, has been closed to fishing since March due to engineering work and is not expected to reopen for several months.

Welsh Water said that with the support of the public water resources should last for the remainder of the summer - however the situation would need to be reviewed if the dry spell continued into the autumn. The company has also increased its leakage repair activity.