A TOUGH council crackdown is looming for York area landowners who block public rights of way.

City of York Council has launched a enforcement programme to open up the local 200km right-of-way network, some of which was obstructed.

Council highway chiefs said most landowners or farmers had co-operated with clearing paths.

But tough action was needed against one Wheldrake farmer who refused to clear crops from a path.

Officers from City of York Council's public rights-of-way unit, along with contractors and the police, recently visited the blocked footpath to clear the crops.

The council is now seeking to recover the costs of the clearance work from the farmer.

Peter Evely, the council's head of network management, said: "The public rights-of-way unit has been working with local farmers to ensure that paths are not obstructed by crops.

"I am pleased to say that in the majority of cases we have received co-operation, with most paths being cleared within 14 days of our first request.

"The local farming community should be commended for its support and efforts to keep the right of way network open.

"Unfortunately, this farmer has committed a criminal offence because he refused to co-operate, and will face a sizeable bill for the clearance work.

"Under these circumstances the law requires that we take action, and that is exactly what we have done."

A Ramblers' Association spokeswoman welcomed the council's actions.

She said: "It is every county council or unitary authority's responsibility to keep rights-of- way clear. It is good to see a council acting on its responsibilities."

Are you the farmer who faces the big legal bill for the enforcement action, or do you know who he or she is?

If so, phone Richard Edwards at the Evening Press on 01904 653051 (extension 310) or email richard.edwards@ycp.co.uk

Updated: 08:49 Wednesday, July 23, 2003