A DISPUTED footpath that sparked a six-year row when it was barred to the public in 2008 could reopen by the end of the year.

The path between Mitton Road, Whalley, and Clitheroe Road, Barrow, was closed by Kevin Berkins, who owns The Eagle at Barrow pub, which borders the path, when he was looking to extend his business.

The decision on the ‘Whalley Number Five’ footpath was contested by the 350-member strong Clitheroe Ramblers group and a public inquiry was held last year.

Mr Berkins argued at the two-day hearing that the footpath didn’t exist. The government planning inspector, Mark Yates, ruled in favour of the walking group and following a consultation period, the Footpath Order has now become law.

It is hoped that the path will be reopened by the end of the year once various obstructions, including a wall, metal fence and overgrown plants, have been removed.

Lancashire County Council officers have placed notices on the path confirming the order, which include a map of the route.

Clitheroe Ramblers member Penny Pitty said: “We are all delighted that this has finally become law.

“The path is the main way to walk from Mitton Road to Clitheroe Road and was normally a main part of our walks.

“We are hopeful that it will be reopened by the end of the year and we are planning a special walk to mark the occasion.

“I’m sure that this will be welcomed by local residents as well.

“It used to serve a vital purpose, allowing people to get from road to road.

“By having the path open it means that walkers no longer have to go along the main roads, which will be a lot safer for everyone.”

A map and further details of the route and the order have been pinned to the parish council notice board in the centre of Whalley.

At the inquiry in 2013, members of the walking group said that a path had existed for many years and ran from fields into the former Spread Eagle Farm yard and past the pub into Clitheroe Road.

No-one from The Eagle at Barrow was available for comment.