PLANS to reopen a scenic path on the route of a disused railway line near Ulverston have won the support of councillors and Barrow MP John Woodcock.

Parts of the route from Greenodd to Bardsea have been used by cyclists, horse riders and walkers for some time, but a section of the route close to the Ulverston canal which is owned by Network Rail was fenced off a few years ago.

However, campaigners are now pressing to reopen the section, a move which would not only allow access along the entire route, but would also provide users with a safer alternative route to the busy A590.

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“As a cyclist who enjoys exploring the rural byways of Furness, I would welcome this scheme and it has the potential to give another dimension to our tourism economy,” said Mr Woodcock.

“People with local knowledge and good ideas should always be listened to and the plan is well worth further scrutiny.”

And Ulverston councillor Mark Wilson, who is also a keen cyclist, said the campaign was well supported in the town and with a successful feasibility study now completed, it was hoped Network Rail would look favourably on the plan.

“The plan is a way to enhance community aspirations for our local people and one which will benefit the town,” he said.