Fife ramblers are celebrating a land owner’s decision to reopen a farm track near Cowdenbeath.
The route through farmland between Cowdenbeath and Lochgelly was blocked for nearly a year, causing outrage among local walkers.
But following a campaign by Ramblers Scotland the landowner removed barricades preventing access.
Elaine Collins from Kirkcaldy Ramblers said: “It is wonderful news, meaning that these two Fife towns are once again linked by a beautiful off-road route.
“We’re grateful to the media and local residents for helping all of us at Ramblers Scotland highlight this problem, which was making it harder for people to enjoy the health and social benefits of walking.”
In addition to a locked gate, fences had been put up to prevent access to the route, which is designated a core path by Fife Council.
A council access officer liaised with the land owner about the ramblers’ complaints.
However, it is understood the decision to open the gate was taken by the landowner himself.
Brendan Paddy, director of Ramblers Scotland, said: “While it’s a shame that this important route was ever blocked, the public response has once again emphasised how much people value their access rights in Scotland.
“We’re really pleased that this problem in Fife appears to be resolved. We will continue helping our local members across the country stand up for the rights of walkers, so everyone can make the most of our wonderful countryside.”
Cardenden walker Chris Mercer was injured while trying to bypass the gate last summer and later underwent a hip replacement operation.
She said: “I landed awkwardly. I was in agony and couldn’t continue on our planned walk, so I ended up hobbling to the bus stop about 20 minutes away.
“I might have needed a hip replacement at some point anyway, but I feel this incident could have been avoided and that it accelerated the need to operate.”
Mrs Mercer added: “I’m so happy that the path’s been reopened and hope it stays that way, so that everyone will once again be able to safely enjoy what is a lovely, popular route.”
