SEVERAL popular footpaths in the Forest of Dean, including routes in Awre and Lydney, are set to close temporarily for safety work on nearby railway embankments.

Starting on Saturday, April 19 Public Footpaths FLY 44, DAW 81, and DAW 84 will be closed for up to six months. The closures are part of essential maintenance work to ensure the stability and safety of railway embankments in the area.

The affected sections are: FLY 44, running from its junction with FLY 43, heading north-east to FLY 50 (approximately 1640 metres); DAW 81, stretching from Gurshill Farm to its junction with DAW 82 (approximately 1200 metres); and DAW 84, starting from its junction with DAW 82 and continuing to Pleasant View (approximately 870 metres).

The closures are expected to last until Saturday, October 19, with alternative routes clearly marked. Emergency and pedestrian access will remain where possible.

This temporary closure is necessary to protect the public while vital work is carried out on the railway embankments. Gloucestershire Highways has assured that access will be provided for local residents and emergency vehicles.

For more information, Gloucestershire Highways can be contacted at 08000 514 514 or online at www.gloucestershire.gov.uk.