Walkers want action on well-trodden path

However, walkers say the trail running through Bellshill is in a disgraceful state and makes a mockery of efforts to encourage exercise and fitness.

Now they want North Lanarkshire Council to make improvements to ensure it deserves its place in the national ‘core paths’ network.

The path stretches from Hattonrigg Road across ground beside the former New Brandon Park football stadium to Bellshill and Mossend Bowling Club, ending in Clay Crescent.

The ground has become an eyesore since the demolition of the stadium.

Walker and community council member John Devlin said: “Before this area was decimated by development there was a fantastic system of tree-lined footpaths well used by the whole community, from dog walkers to schoolchildren who were taken there for nature classes, and residents of Hatton Lea Care Home.”

The Government says every council in Scotland must “draw up a plan for a system of core paths” which should “cater for everyone, including those with disabilities”.

However, Mr Devlin said disabled people would find it impossible to negotiate this particular path in its present state. Walkers are now worried that plans are in place to fence off the path to deter flytipping.

However, the council said there are no such plans. A spokesman said it cannot improve the path as the ground is still privately owned.