RESIDENTS interested in promoting access to the countryside are invited to become a member of Dudley’s Local Access Forum.

The group, which meets bi-monthly at Dudley Council House, considers access issues related to the use of the borough's footpath network.

Members can comment on planning applications and other strategies affecting rights of way and footpaths and there’s also chance to get involved in practical work to help Dudley Council manage the network.

Councillor Hilary Bills, Dudley's cabinet member for environmental services, said: “The Local Access Forum gives people a real opportunity to be involved in looking after their local space and I'd encourage anyone interested to get in touch.”

Applicants could be landowners, who have rights of way crossing their land, representatives of groups who regularly use green spaces, such as walkers, horse riders or cyclists, or people interested in the conservation of the borough's wildlife, geology or heritage.

Any residents interested in joining the forum can call Dudley Council Plus on 0300 555 2345.