PARISHES along a section of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal are being consulted about ambitious multi-million pound plans to make the towpath more accessible.

The draft access development plan aims to create a walking and cycling network, linking communities for recreational use, and also for those wishing a healthier way to get to work.

Put together by transport charity Sustrans and commissioned by Craven District Council, it is the result of a long-term ambition by the council to improve access to the towpath.

The council, which is working in partnership with Bradford Council, North Yorkshire County Council and the Canal and River Trust, has now sent the plan out to consultation to the 13 parish councils along the route.

Once it has gathered the comments of parishes, it plans to publish the draft plan on its website to seek the comments of the wider public.

The plan, which covers the towpath from Steeton to Barnoldswick, puts forward suggestions how access and opportunities for recreation and transport could be improved.

Initial cost estimates put the work at about £6.3 million, with money expected to come from local authorities, and various grant organisations, including Natural England and local enterprise.

Councillor Simon Myers, lead member for Enterprising Craven, said the canal was a major asset, passing though some of the most scenic parts of Craven.

"The access development plan will help us identify how to make the most of this asset in terms of providing safe commuter links of optimising its potential for recreational use."

He added all proposals were indicative, subject to further investigation and currently without funding.

"As funding opportunities arise, further consultation on the scale and scope of individual projects will be undertaken," he said.

Mike Babbitt, Sustrans Yorkshire, said he hoped the project would be able to build on the success of the Yorkshire Grand Depart.

"Sustrans welcomes any improvements that will make cycling safer and more attractive in the Craven area. This can only benefit residents' health, commuting journeys and tourism following the huge interest inspired by this year's Grand Depart."

Nick Smith, enterprise manager at the Canal and River Trust, said: "It's great to be working with other organisations on a plan to create better access along the canal for commuters and the community. The canal is a great asset for the area and this plan will help guide future improvements along it."