THE future of a path which runs through Charles Turner's Mill in Belmont will be decided by a public inquiry.
Blackburn with Darwen Council has withdrawn an application to Blackburn magistrates for a stopping-up order.
But campaigners who have battled for years to retain the public right of way have the chance to recoup their costs from the council.
Alan Fairhurst, for the council, said it had decided that a public inquiry was the proper forum for the matter to be aired.
Don Lee, of the Open Spaces Society, one of four organisations which will seek to recoup their costs, said they had incurred considerable costs preparing their arguments.
The magistrates agreed to a special hearing on July 17 when the Open Spaces Society, Ramblers' Association, Greater Manchester Pedestrians Association and the Peak and Northern Footpath Society will all apply for costs.
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