A SHORTCUT across the old railway line in Otley was due yesterday to become an official footpath.

Changes to the definitive map to add the 50 yard section off Milner Bank were expected to be approved at yesterday's meeting of the city council's Public Rights of Way Sub-Committee.

And in case anyone was in any doubt how well used the path is, a 502 page document was presented to councillors.

Councillor Graham Kirkland (Lib Dem, Otley and Wharfedale) said: "This must be the biggest report about the shortest footpath in the history of local government."

The report details the evidence of people who have used the path over the years.

Coun Kirkland said he agreed the path should become an official footpath but that it should not be allowed to stop any future plans to reinstate the railway line.

"It's been used for 12 years or more as a footpath and before that was a proper crossing of the railway.

"I believe it should be a footpath, although my only concern is that it should not prejudice the reopening of the railway."