I AM seeking the support of readers in registering an objection to the extinguishing of 'Pig's Alley' ie: footpath No 516 and formerly Bromsgrove No 17.

If the council does not receive objections by September 21, our community will lose a little more land to the developers.

This footpath provides a vital, safe walking route to school for children to South Bromsgrove High School. The alternative route is both longer and involves walking alongside both the major dual carriageway and the busy roads from town to Rock Hill and Charford.

As parents we are continually being urged to encourage our children to walk to school to improve their health and cut down on traffic. This route is used daily in term time for youngsters to get to school safely.

As a family we often use the path as part of an evening stroll or to walk to the late night convenience store. We would use it even more frequently were it properly maintained! This footpath is also an important link for those wishing to walk into town from Charford/Rock Hill avoiding the traffic and pollution of the main road.

I am appalled that this route is even being considered for 'extinguishing'. Rather, it should be properly maintained with lighting, litter bins and 'dog loo bins'. The path should be properly marked and incorporated into the cycle network.

I am no ecologist, but I am aware that the hedgerows are alive with wildlife that would no doubt be set aside in years to come when the path (if extinguished) will no doubt be destroyed and land used for alternate purposes.

I sincerely hope the council rethinks this decision and would urge people to write to Mr Mallinson at County Hall demanding our footpaths and cycle ways are protected, improved and extended, lest the rural aspects of Bromsgrove be totally lost to future generations.

Mrs K Hands

Old Station Road

Bromsgrove