WORK to improve access to a Halesowen footpath which has been "obstructed for at least 20 years" has finally begun.

The footpath, which links Illey to Woodgate Valley Country park, is of "strategic importance" and its obstruction has "inconvenienced" thousands of people over the years, who have not been able to use it according to countryside campaigner Mick Freer.

Mick, of Hales Owen Abbey Trust, complained to Dudley Council over the issue.

He said: "Footpath HLS 0087 has been obstructed for at least 20 years.

"Over that period, many have tried but failed to get Dudley Council to act in accordance with the law and get this footpath opened.

"All have failed.

"The list includes Dudley Borough Local Access Forum, who are statutory advisors to the Council in this respect.

"The footpath is of strategic importance, linking Illey to Woodgate Valley Country Park.

"Thousands of people have been inconvenienced by the obstruction.

"The Trust has tried to resolve the matter on many occasions."

Now Dudley Council has said it has taken action over the footpath and is working with the landowner.

Councillor Damian Corfield, cabinet member for highways and environmental services, said: “We’ve had positive conversations with the landowner to improve access along the footpath.

“The landowner has committed to installing three stiles along the footpath and one has already been fitted.

"The other two stiles will be installed in the near future.”

But Mick said the council had given the landowner three galvanised steel stiles.

He said: "It beggars belief. The council says it is cash-strapped.

"The cheapest route would have been to write to the landowner under the Highways Act and give them one month to make it right - otherwise the council can install stiles and charge the landowner.

"It's been obstructed for 27 years."