A NEW footpath could be established through Old Sneed Park down to one of Bristol's busiest roads despite concerns about safety.

The proposal – for a footpath from Glenavon Park to the Portway – is part of a row that has been going on for 20 years.

Despite previous attempts in 1997 and 2002 nothing was agreed until 2006, when former senior council officer David Bishop decided on a route past Cavendish Gardens.

This proved unpopular with locals due to concerns about the condition of the wall at the back of the address.

Officers have now come up with an alternative through council land from the end of Cavendish Gardens where it then connects to the claimed path further south west and continues to the Portway.

Residents again objected, raising concerns about the potential danger of a route finishing on the Portway, which is notorious for having poor pedestrian access on one side of the road.

They also questioned whether the path was necessary and claimed making it safe for walkers was a waste of tax payer's money.

Finally the 14 objectors have argued the new path would lead to increased traffic and parking in Cavendish Gardens.

The council says the new route would connect to an existing right of way which emerges on to the Portway from Horseshoe Drive.

Council officers also claim the proposed alternative route is already frequently used.

A number of opponents of the alternate route attended a meeting of the council's public rights of way committee to air their concerns yesterday.

A spokesman for the Bristol Parks Forum said: "We haven't seen any real use of this path.

"The claimants haven't bothered to attend any of the hearings. I just don't understand where you're coming from – we feel like we're being bulldozed over.

"What is the purpose of this route? This will put you onto a dangerous part of the Portway. How can you possibly justify spending this money at this time?"

A council officer said the estimated cost of improving the condition of the path was £1,500.

If there are objections to the dedication it could go to Public Inquiry, which would cost up to £14,000 more.

Committee members agreed to defer a decision on the path until they have carried out a site visit.

Chairman Councillor Peter Abraham (Conservative, Stoke Bishop) said: "There are obviously some very strong feelings on this for residents and the parking is still an issue."