MUCH-needed improvements to a footpath around a Pendle reservoir could move a step closer this week.

Borough countryside officers have drawn up a £2,700 scheme to improve a muddy route around Foulridge’s lower reservoir.

And, following a meeting with Colne area committee chairman Coun Graham Waugh, and colleagues Coun David Clegg and Coun Paul White, the Canal and Rivers Trust has agreed to provide 50per cent match funding.

This would be provided that the authority pledges to fork out the remaining £1,250 before the end of this March. Work would be carried out by trust volunteers, supervised by one of their co-ordinators.

Area committee members will consider whether, or not, to support the bid tomorrow.