AN area of land which is regularly used by walkers in Worcester could soon be used for grazing.

The land, which is part of the old golf course off Newtown Road is owned by Severn Trent Water, which hopes to return the land to its former use.

Councillor Andy Roberts, who represents the ward on Worcestershire County Council, received an e-mail from an estate agent working as managing agent for Severn Trent outlining the plans, which involves first topping the land and then fencing the outer boundary at a later date with a long-term aim to let the land for grazing.

The majority of the site is private property and public access is not permitted but it includes a local network of public footpaths, which are regularly used by residents.

Coun Roberts said he did not want walkers to be shocked by the changes. He said: “It’s an important green area because in the city itself it’s important that we have got open areas.

“It’s a pleasant area, an almost semi-rural area in the city, and I just hope that everybody can be happy with changes.”

A spokesman for Severn Trent said: “We can confirm that the land is no longer required for the operational activities of Severn Trent Water and is now being promoted for development through the normal planning process.”

Richard Preston, Worcestershire County Council’s countryside access team leader, said: “We have been approached by the landowner’s agent about the correct locations of public right of way which we have advised accordingly.

“We understand that the landowner, Severn Trent, is seeking to bring their land back into more favourable status for wildlife conservation.

“The landowner’s agent has done the right thing in seeking appropriate advice and the county council will ensure that existing public access rights are protected.”