WALKERS in Portishead are protesting over the closure of a coastal footpath.

They say they are furious after a gate leading on to the path, which runs along the sea wall, was padlocked for the second time in six months, preventing them from using a route which has been enjoyed for more than 40 years.

Long-time Portishead resident Dennis Walker said: “Closing this route to the public is outrageous; I can’t understand why anyone wants to prevent us from walking along the wharf which has been open to the public for as long as I can remember.”

Dog walker Pauline Dale who lives close to the marina said she was upset by the action which “seems completely unnecessary”.

Last year when the fence and gate were installed, people were so incensed they removed part of it themselves to gain access.

Persimmon Homes Severn Valley, which installed the barrier last year, says it knows nothing about this latest issue but will investigate it further to find an amicable resolution for everyone concerned

Meanwhile a North Somerset Council spokesman said they believe the gate has been locked for health and safety reasons.

Protesters are now calling for members of the community to submit public right of way evidence forms to North Somerset Council, in an attempt to get the path open again.