A long-awaited new footpath will mean a safer route for children and residents in a Flintshire town, it has been said.

Buckley Councillor Carol Ellis told the Leader of her joy after years of efforts to secure the new path finally moved forward - thanks to funding secured by Flintshire County Council.

She said: "Residents have wanted a footpath linking Bryn Road to White Farm Road and I have been trying for and requesting this for years.

"It's really important to people who live round there - I have had numerous requests.

"Flintshire Council officers have been successful in getting funds from the Welsh Government to actually put this footpath in.

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"I am very grateful to the officers for being persistent and helping me see this through."

Cllr Ellis said the current alternative is walking along a fast road backed by Buckley Common - which sometimes becomes waterlogged.

"This path will make things much safer for people," she said.

Part of the challenge in getting the scheme off the ground is securing a licence to install the footpath, Cllr Ellis explained.

"Because it's common land, the council has to apply for a licence," she said.

"And the path can't just be a tarmac one for example - it has to be made with certain materials.

"It's not a straight forward thing.

"The process of obtaining the licence has slowed things down but I am hoping they will be able to start work in the next four or five weeks."

A council spokesman added: "Flintshire County Council has successfully secured Welsh Government grant funding for footway improvements in Alltami. 

"The scheme will enhance pedestrian safety for residents, while providing a safe walking route for pupils who attend the surrounding schools. Works are expected to commence this spring."