IT IS not the first place you would think of for an afternoon's quiet fishing.
But plans are being drawn up to create a £40,000 angling lake in Orchard Park, on land next to the pitch and putt golf course in Danepark Road.
The plans are the brainchild of Councillor Julia Conner, who says she wants it to rival the impressive lake at East Park in east Hull.
She said: "People in east Hull have East Park. Why shouldn't Orchard Parkers have their own?
"This will be a substantial lake.
"People don't have a lot of money to spend at the moment – fishing is a very popular and inexpensive pastime."
Cllr Conner said there are no current plans to charge anglers. She said: "All people will need is a valid rod licence and they can enjoy a day's fishing."
Cllr Conner said she struck on the idea for a fishing lake while visiting the city's East Park.
"It's a great facility for the people of east Hull," she said. "Quite often you will see people of all ages, but especially young people aged 12 to 17 or so, sitting with a pack-up and enjoying the tranquil surroundings.
"I remember going fishing with my own father as a child. It's a lovely, relaxing hobby for families to do together.
"I was surprised to hear, from my father, that fishing is more popular than football."
The plan is in its infancy, says Cllr Conner, although a site visit has already been made.
"We are looking at creating this lake on a substantially- sized field, close to the pitch and putt site," she said.
Cash for the project, which could get under way within weeks, has been set aside from the Community Initiative Budget.
Each year, ward councillors are allotted a sum of cash, which they can spend on initiatives to benefit the local community. Cllr Conner says a picnic area will also be created near the lake.
She said: "We are hopeful this lake will be completed by the end of the summer, which will obviously be when it will get most use."
Do you have a story from Orchard Park/north Hull estate? If so, call Kevin Shoesmith on 01482 315266.
