By Jenny Barwise

Last updated at 12:54, Thursday, 24 January 2013

A footpath will be closed for at least 15 years due to fears of further erosion.

The path has become dangerous because of unstable cliffs

The Whitehaven footpath, at the site of the former Saltom Pit at Kells, was closed two years ago because of unstable cliffs falling above the path.

There were hopes that a diversion would be put in place for the route, which runs from the Candlestick Chimney in Whitehaven to Saltom Pit, but this will not go ahead for at least 15 years until the remaining cliff has eroded.

Andrew Moss, Cumbria County Council’s assistant director for highways and transport, said: “Originally it was hoped that there would be a diversion of the footpath.

“However, after further investigation it became apparent that his will not be possible until the half million tonnes of spoil causing the subsidence and instability have reached the sea.

“This is expected to take in the region of 15 years,” added Mr Moss.

Since the footpath closed, Copeland council has put out numerous warnings to the public to stay away.

The latest was just last month after reports came in that people were still using it.

And last March there were serious concerns about children seen walking along the path, which has dangerous cracks and holes along it, as well as the risk of further slippage of the route.

The report, compiled by Mr Moss, will be presented to county councillors at the meeting of the local committee for Copeland.

Committee members are expected to approve the recommendation for a permanent prohibition of pedestrians on the path.

First published at 12:47, Thursday, 24 January 2013
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk