RESIDENTS are upset that a popular footpath is expected to remain off-limits throughout the summer, a councillor has said.

Social media users took to Facebook to share their disappointment after a public notice was issued regarding the ongoing closure of public footpath number 1 in Sealand.

The closure has been put in place between the path's junction with the Welsh Road to the junction near Hawarden Bridge in order for civil engineering works to be carried out - specifically, an outfall pipe into the River Dee.

A temporary prohibition of pedestrians order came into force from December 5 for a period of six months, up to and including June 4.

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But the latest notice placed on the footpath explains that the order has now been extended by a further six months - and could last until December 4, unless works are concluded sooner.

The notice states that "there is no alternative route available."

Sealand Councillor Christine Jones said: "It has already been closed off for quite a while, and it's such a shame because it's a well used footpath.

"But at the end of the day, if the work is important and is going to benefit the community, it has to be done.

"It would be great if an alternative route can be found; a lot of people from other areas use that way.

"People are also upset because this is happening through the summer and everyone uses that path for lovely walks and cycling.

"They are going to miss that leisure aspect of it."

A Flintshire Council spokesman said: "Flintshire County Council are aware of the regrettable inconvenience caused by essential civil engineering works for a new outfall pipe into the River Dee and the need to close the Public Right of Way and cycle path.

"Works were planned to start at the start of the year however, the contractor has experienced unfortunate delays.  The notice of closure was advertised in the local press on May 19. 

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"The applicant, in closing the path, would normally provide information on any diversion but this has not been received by Flintshire County Council. 

"The council’s access team will be putting up some information on how the public can bypass this route.  

"The works are expected to take up to 12 weeks to complete."