STEPS to provide access to an unsafe footpath on the Nickey Line footpath and cycleway have received a cash boost.

County councillor Bernard Lloyd has awarded The Friends of the Nickey Line £1,000 from his locality budget to help meet the costs of putting in new steps, which were closed on safety grounds in 2008, at Park Hill.

Before it closed, this access point was heavily used by people getting to and from Luton Road bus services and shops.

The Friends of the Nickey Line is a support group for the former railway route between Harpenden and Hemel Hempstead. Its 200 members help to maintain the route, encourage people to use the path, and promote activities such as guided walks and group cycle rides.

Councillor Lloyd said: “The Nickey Line route is one of several former railway lines in the county which have become viable walking and cycling routes in more recent times.

"It’s very evident from its continued popularity as a commuting and recreational route that people want to be able to use it and want action to be taken over the steps.

"While this is an expensive project in itself, this is an investment on behalf of the local community which I am very happy to support.”