A FOOTPATH which is on the Cleveland Way has been closed temporarily due to subsidence.
The footpath through Riftswood in Saltburn has been affected by heavy rainfall in recent weeks.
Saltburn councillor Philip Thomson said cyclists had made its deteriorating condition worse.
He said: “The first of two chicanes were recently installed on this footpath to reinforce the message that no mountain bikes or any cycle can be used on this public right of way which is designed solely for pedestrians.
“Cycle usage has not assisted in maintaining good surface standards and has exacerbated erosion where it is taking place.”
Cllr Thomson, who is leader of the Conservative group on Redcar and Cleveland Council, said maintenance budgets were stretched and woodland areas were not receiving the investment required to keep them in serviceable condition.
A spokeswoman for Redcar and Cleveland Council said: “Due to adverse weather, we have had some subsidence to the Riftswood pathway in Saltburn.
“We have temporarily closed the path and put a diversion in place.
“The path is on the Cleveland Way, so we have sought advice from the National Trail officer who will assess the situation and advise, if required, what action should be taken to rectify the problem.”
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