A PUBLIC footpath across an earth dam is to be diverted for safety reasons following £2,4million restoration scheme at an ecological site.

The change to the right of way at Jack Keys Reservoir in Darwen was approved by councillors on Thursday night.

As a result the footpath will be 50 metres longer than the existing walking route.

Blackburn with Darwen Borough Planning and Highways Committee was told : "The existing path across the earth dam has become potentially unsafe and may collapse if the dam was to fill to its entirety.

"The proposal is considered to be in the interests of the landowner because it will move the path away from the immediate vicinity of the unstable land eliminating the need for reactive plans should the land collapse.

"It may also be considered that there are some public benefits to the proposal in so much that the proposed new route has been constructed with ornamental features and a bridge over a brook.

"The path is in a rural location and only likely to be used for recreational purpose"

Committee member and Darwen East ward's Cllr Roy Davies said: "It was the right decision,.

"It is a small change but it is important as it will ensure the safety of users."