A LICKEY End right of way which is so old it is believed to have been used in Roman times is being restored by Worcestershire County Council.
Lib Dem councillors Josh Robinson and Rob Hunter have lobbied for years for facilities on the ancient public right of way between Alcester Road and A38 Birmingham Road to be improved.
The pair were delighted their efforts are finally paying off after new facilities began to be installed this week which will open up the route once more.
The route starts opposite the Recreation Ground in Lickey End and passes through farmland and a woodland before coming out on the A38 Birmingham Road opposite Roman Way.
It is believed its origins lie in the Worcester to Lickey Roman Road, after excavations in the 1950s identified historic road deposits.
Although it has been a recognised public right of way for a long time, it had fallen into a state of disrepair.
Stiles were broken, signs were missing and parts of the right of way were completely overgrown.
Now after a successful campaign by the councillors, and interventions from the police, the right of way is being restored with new signs, new stiles and a new bridge. The investment is intended to make the right of way more accessible to local residents for many years to come.
Walkers are encouraged to make use of the new-look path but are also reminded that the right of way is through private land, which must be respected.
Anyone using it must keep dogs on a lead and must not stray beyond the route that is indicated on the signs. Walking outside of a designated public right of way is a form of trespassing.
Coun Hunter, who started the campaign to restore the route, said: “It has been a long time coming but I am absolutely delighted that residents will now have safe access to this beautiful and historic public right of way.
“We are doing everything we can to try and encourage people out of their cars and this provides an a great opportunity to explore the local area on foot.”
Coun Robinson, who secured the funding for the works, added: “I’d like to say a big thank you to local police officers, council officers and the landowners who have all worked together to make this possible.
“It really is a big improvement and we must ensure we use it responsibly so it stays that way.”
