A NEW gate has been installed after residents found a stile on a popular walking route in Corbridge inaccessible.

In 2020, Network Rail installed a new fence to separate the riverside walk to the east of Tynedale Rugby Club from the railway track.

A metal stile was installed, but a number of walkers and their dogs found this to be inaccessible.

County councillor for Corbridge Nick Oliver said after hearing concerns from residents, he contacted Network Rail and asked them if they would replace the stile with a gate.

Wooden kissing gates on both sides of the railway line have now been installed.

Thomas Brand, Maintenance Protection Coordinator for Network Rail, said: “This work took place in December and has made it easier for people to use the footpath.

“We’re always happy to work with communities and we’d like to thank those who got in touch with us about this issue.”

Coun. Oliver said: "Thanks to Network Rail for listening to the concerns of Corbridge and Riding Mill residents who struggled to get themselves or their dogs over the stile.

"This popular walk is now accessible again and we're all grateful for that."