RESIDENTS fighting to close a path to the M65 service station today said they were confused and fed up after reaching a stalemate.

Despite Blackburn with Darwen Council voting to close the path five months ago, it remains open and residents say the youth nuisance is still a problem.

Concerns were raised last year in Redvers Road about the number of youths hanging around the path, dropping litter and making noise.

In May this year, residents were delighted when the council's planning department voted to close the path after complaints and a 70-name petition. But five months later no move has been made and residents are puzzled as to the reason why.

Stuart Chelton, of Redvers Road, has campaigned with his wife Linda since the path was created. He said: "I rang the council and was told that despite them voting to close the path the council did not actually have the power to close it and it was up to the developer.

"I asked why they couldn't fence it off and was told that the kids would still get over it. It just seems like a losing battle. The main problem is kids dropping their burger wrappers. It is a mess. The street is also 90 per cent people over 60 years old and when the gangs of youths turn up it terrifies them."

Council bosses have explained that the footpath was on the definitive map of public rights of way drawn up in 1976 and had simply been improved by developers.

Adam Scott, director of regeneration, housing and neighbourhoods at the council, said: "The council has been pursuing this since it met with councillors and local residents and we had a very positive meeting with 305 Management Services, but they sold the site in September to a new company.

"We have had discussions with this company and hope we will be able to reach a satisfactory outcome for both the service station and residents. The new company seems keen to work with us and we are hopeful."