New bridges and steps open beauty spot routes

The first phase of the work has been carried out in Eastnor

Routes that were inaccessible to walkers are set to be reopened after new bridges and steps were put in.

There are 2,100 miles of public access "rights of way" across Herefordshire, but some of it remains closed off to ramblers.

Herefordshire Council has promised to fix this, and wants to open the network to residents and tourists.

The first phase of work is now complete, it said, with 10 new bridges and the replacement of 200 steps around the village of Eastnor.

There are 10 new bridges and 200 steps have been replaced

Councillor Philip Price, the cabinet member of transport and infrastructure, said more locations were set for similar measures in the coming weeks, adding paths had been closed due to a "historic lack of investment".

"Keeping our network well-maintained and open helps provide opportunities for local people to boost their health and wellbeing by walking outdoors [and] attracts visitors," he said.