FURY has erupted after a footpath set to become a right of way was dug up.

Plans were approved last year for a sheltered accommodation scheme in Mile Lane, Bury, for people aged over 55.

People living in the area raised concerns because they claim to have used a footpath across the land for up to 40 years.

In February, they applied for the path to be made a right of way, which would give the public a legal right to use the path.

But three weeks ago, residents were outraged to find the paved footpath had been dug up.

Cllr Roy Walker, who lives in nearby Freckleton Drive, said: “A lot of people are upset about this. The timing is very bad because we are in the middle of making this a public right of way.

“This path has been used daily by people for many years and should be considered as a right of way. It’s very convenient for people with prams and wheelchairs, and is used as a shortcut to the shops.

“People are still using the path but finding it much more difficult. It will be impossible to use in the winter, when the ground is wet and muddy.”

One resident said: “People aren’t happy about this. It was a well-used and recognised route. We were confident it would be made a right of way.

“Now that the path has been dug up, it will become a mud-bath when it rains. Many elderly people won’t be able to use it anymore.”

A Bury Council spokesman said: “The council received an application in February to add a public footpath to the definitive map and statement for the development site at Mile Lane. The proposed path runs across land adjacent to the Mile Lane Health Centre.

“That application is under investigation and this includes council officers undertaking short interviews with members of the public who have provided evidence relating to the application.”

The owners of the land declined to comment.