Viersel (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Viersel fishing pond in Zandhoven is now closed on weekends due to repeated nuisance, including barbecues with caught fish and trash left by foreign visitors.
You are no longer welcome from Friday through Sunday nights, according to signs in six languages, including Polish and Romanian.
“The fly-tipping was getting out of hand,”
the municipal authorities say.
Normally a peaceful spot where hikers and fishermen go to have fun, Viersel’s fishing pond has seen a lot of annoyance in recent weeks, according to the municipality of Zandhoven, Belgium. Gazet van Antwerpen reported this, and Mayor Luc Van Hove (CD&V) verified it.
“At the weekend, entire families show up with tents, barbecues and fishing rods. They do have a fishing permit, but they eat the pike they catch. They camp there the entire weekend and leave a lot of illegal dumping behind. Because there are no sanitary facilities at the fishing hole, they use the ‘sanitary facilities’ behind the trees.”
From the number plates that are often spotted at the fishing pond in Viersel during the weekend, the mayor deduces that it mainly concerns foreign holidaymakers.
“You see Polish, Romanian and Ukrainian number plates, presumably these are people who live in the city and then go to Viersel during the weekend.”
“That is why we have also placed the texts on the warning signs in those languages. But the weekend ban applies to everyone. It is a pity that we are also punishing people who want to walk quietly by the well.”
On weekdays, hikers and fishermen are still welcome, Mayor Van Hove adds.
What measures are being taken to prevent illegal activities like BBQs with caught fish?
As demonstrated by the weekend closure of Viersel Pond to stop disturbances and barbecues, restricting public access during periods of high nuisance (such as weekends) can lessen the likelihood of criminal activity.
Illegal activity is discouraged by assigning park rangers or qualified law enforcement officers to patrol the area, warn of potential dangers, and punish violators with fines or other penalties. Unauthorized grilling and commercial activity are deterred by visible presence.
Signs that clearly forbid littering, grilling, and unpermitted vending inform guests of the regulations and penalties. Public awareness campaigns promote community reporting of infractions and proper use.
Misuse can be reduced by removing or limiting amenities that support unlawful activity, such as places set aside for barbecuing or private locations hidden behind trees. The provision of designated picnic areas redirects visitor behavior into manageable patterns.
Sarhan Basem is Brussels Morning's Senior Correspondent to the European Parliament. With a Bachelor's degree in English Literature, Sarhan brings a unique blend of linguistic finesse and analytical prowess to his reporting. Specializing in foreign affairs, human rights, civil liberties, and security issues, he delves deep into the intricacies of global politics to provide insightful commentary and in-depth coverage. Beyond the world of journalism, Sarhan is an avid traveler, exploring new cultures and cuisines, and enjoys unwinding with a good book or indulging in outdoor adventures whenever possible.
