Carpark at Hampton Lode

Just as a point of reference. I went fishing to Hampton Lode ( left bank ) a couple of weeks ago. I hadn't fished there for a few years and was really looking forward to it. Rang the appropriate numbers and found the appropriate car park lock code and set off for what I hoped to be a good days fishing nice and early the next morning. I got there about 5.30am. Low and behold the lock number did not work and I then had to wait until 7.30am ish; when a lady, from the National Trust, showed up to open the gate. I did ask why the number I was given did not work and basically she told me the 'partnership between the N.T and the BAA did not now exist as too many locks had been taken by anglers......I did say to her that I doubted that very much and tried to explain why would BBA members shoot themselves in the foot doing such a thing. So anglers beware the lock policy has changed and you wont get in until the lady arrives between 7.30 and 8.00am.
On a secondary note WHAT HAS HAPPENED TO BARBEL ALLEY ??????? Is it ever fished now or has running the gauntlet of those pesky cows become too dangerous. As I said before I hadn't fished there for a number of years but could not believe how unused it looked. Plus where have all the barbel gone? I spent a pleasant day on the bank but did not get even a sniff of a bite.......never, ever had I had that happen before. It was always so prolific in the past.
I understand the walk and the 'mad cow problem' may put off all but the dedicated/ desperate angler but to finally arrive after all those trials and tribulations earlier in the morning and to have not even a 'sniff' of a bite was most disconcerting. Has anyone had similar recent trips to 'barbel alley' and did you fare any better? I would like to know and dont want another wasted journey considering I travelled there from Solihull. Thanks,
Ray