Public walkway reopens after three-month closure

The walkway has been raised in places to the woodwork above the undergrowth

A section of a public footpath closed after being found to be in a "hazardous state" more than three months ago has been reopened.

The Department of Infrastructure (DoI) closed the public right of way between Cregneash and Spanish Head was closed in June due to deterioration of the boardwalk.

The new walkway is raised in a bid to extend the life of the new structure as it lifts the woodwork above the damp undergrowth, the department said.

The boardwalk has also been extended to ensure all wet areas are passable.

The former boardwalks had deteriorated making it hazardous for walkers

The original boardwalk was kept in as it was now home to "a number of frogs", the department said, adding that "great care" was taken to protect the surrounding habitat, with areas where rare orchids grow being avoided.

A tall steel post was also retained as it had become a regular perch for a long-eared owl, and there was some clearance work to ensure the path was passable.

Although there were some signs to be installed, the path was now fully open to walkers, the department said.