Residents have accused the council of ‘riding roughshod’ over an area of natural beauty by allowing paths to be built on it,
Work is ongoing to make The Coppice, Accrington, more accessible by improving paths going up it.
But Shirley Allen, of Avenue Parade, said the work was ‘over the top’, She said: “How many paths do you need up to the top??They’re riding roughshod over somewhere that was once lovely. I don’t think anyone objects to a few pathways but these are vast swathes.”
And Clive Wallwork, of Burnley Road, added: "I have walked The Coppice for more years than I care to remember. Now I look around in despair at its transformation into an eyesore with sanitised walkways."
But a number of readers disagreed with their views on our Facebook page.
One said: “Been up today for a lovely walk, and I’m very pleased with the work so far.”
Deputy council leader Clare Pritchard, who is chairman of Friends of Arden Hall and The Coppice said: “The new paths through the woodland at Arden Hall have already massively improved this area and make it easier for people to enjoy the wonderful countryside.
“Similar work is being carried out to improve over 2.5km of paths to make a network of paths, including a circular walk on the summit, with the aim of making this well-loved local beauty spot more accessible for everyone to enjoy.
“The work is funded by the Forestry Commission and Biffa Award and also includes woodland management, more seating and informative signage. We expect the work to be finished early next year.”
