A GINNEL used by generations of Otley people is set to become a public footpath.

The cut through between Boroughgate and Courthouse Street has been used for hundreds of years, but never officially designated a public right of way.

But now, Leeds City Council has been given the go-ahead by the secretary of state to add it to the town's official footpaths - unless someone objects in the next few weeks.

Meanwhile, Councillor Clive Fox (Con, Otley and Wharfedale) said although it is good news for all those who use the popular route, it is a bit of legalistic nonsense.

"I don't think the good citizens of Otley are likely to be dancing in the streets celebrating their good fortune.

"The footpath already exists and has been used by generations of local people and visitors to the town and they have never imagined it to be anything other than a public footpath," said Coun Fox.

The path starts next to 10 Boroughgate and emerges just under 200 feet later next to 17 Courthouse Street.

Coun Fox added: "In accordance with the Act, an inspector was solemnly appointed by the Secretary of State for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA).

"After giving the matter due consideration, he has now come to the perhaps unsurprising conclusion that the six foot wide thoroughfare used for years daily by scores of people is indeed a public footpath."

But now, as part of the legal process, there is a short time for people to object to the High Court

And any claims for damage - such as caused by people tramping up and down outside their homes - have to be made by June.

"I think its unlikely that anyone would have legitimate grounds to challenge an order which arises from what is called a legalistic tidying up exercise designed to remove any possible doubt as to the status of the public footpath," Coun Fox told the Wharfedale.