WORK has started on a project to plug the final hole in Hyndburn's cycle path network.

The scheme will create a low-level causeway across Platt's Lodge, behind the borough council's offices, in Ormerod Street, Accrington, and a bridge across Woodnook Water for cyclists and pedestrians.

The route is seen as a key component in the cycling network because it will create access to an area of open space which is currently inaccessible to the public.

It will also provide links to Woodnook Vale, which has the potential to be designated a Local Nature Reserve.

The full route within Hyndburn starts at the Rossendale boundary, follows the former railway from Baxenden to Accrington, passes alongside the railway line through Accrington to Church, then follows the canal towpath via Rishton to Whitebirk.

Preliminary work on the project includes draining Platts Lodge and moving fish to Haggs Lodge, near Asda in Accrington.

Ecological improvements to the lodge habitat have been agreed with the Environment Agency. These will include the planting of additional reed bed areas to the east of the causeway to promote breeding areas for fish and invertebrates.

An ecology consultant has recommended remaining bank areas be left to regenerate naturally to maintain a consistent habitat.

This is the last of three links that were missing in the £555,000 network, which has been funded by sources including Sport England, Lancashire County Council, Lancashire Environmental Fund and SITA Environmental Trust.

Work on the other two is expected to be completed next month.

Coun Peter Britcliffe, leader of the council said: "This is great news as it will open up the area to benefit both cyclists and walkers, and marks a big step forward in the regeneration of the area."