A LITTLE used bridleway is to be made a public right of way to encourage more people to use it.

Sedgefield Borough Council is hoping to develop the circular bridleway, which runs for about two miles round Woodham, Newton Aycliffe.

But only a small section, which runs through the middle of the residential areas of Woodham, has actually been dedicated as a public bridleway.

A report to Sedgefield council said: "The remainder of the bridleway is not recorded on the definitive map as a public right of way, and therefore, Durham County Council does not carry out any maintenance works on the route.

"Consequently, the bridleway remains in a very poor condition and little used by the public."

The council has now dedicated two more sections of the route as a public right of way.

Other parts of the bridleway run through privately owned land, including a large section owned by Woodham Golf and Country Club.

The report said: "If the bridleway and associated footpath are to be recorded on the definitive map, then landowners must agree to formally dedicate the routes as public rights of way."

The council is liaising with the landowners and a further report will be presented to the cabinet on the outstanding sections of the route.