CAMPAIGNERS are celebrating as a footpath popular with children, commuters and dog walkers is set to be made an official public right of way.

Back in 2016, ward councillor Sue Lissimore (Con, Prettygate) submitted an application to Essex County Council to make the path, which runs from Norman Way in Prettygate to Norman Way in Lexden, an official public walking route.

However, Philip Morant School and College, St Benedict’s College and County High School for Girls all objected to the proposals and so the decision was referred to the planning inspectorate.

However, after a lengthy decision-making process the inspector has now ruled the path, which has been used by the public since the 1950s, should be made an official right of way.

He also said it should not be closed off in future.

Mrs Lissimore said: “Residents filled out a statement saying how and why they use the path and the inspectorate has agreed the path has been used for many years as a public path and should, therefore, be declared as one.

“However, the schools objected to the general width as it would have affected their car park and so a slight alteration has been made, which will need a six week consultation.”

Rather than a uniform five metre path width, the amended plans recommend the path should be between three metres and 8.8 metres.

All three schools are understood to have signalled they have no further objections to the amended scheme.

Mrs Lissimore said: “Once the six weeks are up, and if no objections are made, the path will be free for all to use for eternity.”

She added: “It is really good news because it means it won’t be closed off to walkers anymore.”

An application to the Local Highways Panel for funding to improve drainage and resurface was on hold until the decision was made.