A Government inspector’s decision to allow what was described as a ‘missing link’ on a footpath trail must be welcomed.

The £3m Great Northern Railway Trail aims to link Cullingworth to Queensbury in a traffic-free route.

It will join the fantastic network of footpaths and bridleways that allow us all to have as much access to our wonderful countryside as possible.

It is unfortunate that a compromise could not be reached with the landowner before it reached this stage, but the decision was the right one for the benefit of all who value the right to roam.

The inspector’s decision opens up many routes for circular walks between Thornton and Queensbury.

And it lifts the logjam that was preventing completion of the six-mile trail.

Hopefully, negotiations over the finer details of how the access can work with the landowner can be sensible so work can quickly get under way.

Sustrans, the group who are behind the trail, hope it can be completed by Easter.

Any development like this which encourages walking is particularly welcomed at a time when lack of exercise is leading to a massive obesity problem.

For those who are reluctant to use the gym, what better way to get natural exercise than the great outdoors?

And what better place to experience it than the fantastic landscapes on this trail, which is right on many of our doorsteps?