Reopening popular woodland walk will cost £30,000

Reopening a popular south of Scotland woodland walk will cost a council an estimated £30,000.

Tank Wood in Moffat forms a link between two paths but has been closed since October last year due to safety concerns over fallen trees and branches.

A report to Dumfries and Galloway Council's Annandale and Eskdale area committee recognised its closure was "causing a detriment to people's enjoyment of the local area".

However, a tree survey has recommended that seven trees be removed and remedial work carried out on nearly 100 more before it can be opened again.

Quotes are currently being sought from contractors to undertake the work identified within the independent tree survey.

Once these have been evaluated the council said the work would be carried out "at the earliest opportunity to address the identified health and safety risks".

"The council recognises the importance of Tank Wood as a valued community asset and is committed to undertaking the necessary tree safety works as quickly as practicable," a report added.

"The woodland will remain closed to the public until the identified works have been completed and the area can be safely reopened."