A STANDOFF between dog walkers and dairy farmers has ended following a compromise that will allow people to walk freely in the fields bordering Park Street.

A post and rail fence will be installed along the northern border of Bartonsham Meadow, creating a 500 metre permissive path for walkers punctuated at both ends by a pair of kissing gates.

The church commission owned field, long-frequented by dog walkers, had recently become the centre of controversy as Bartonsham Dairy - which leases the land – fenced off the entrance at the eastern end concerned that dog excretion could harm the cattle.

However the chain fence was then cut through, raising tensions between the dairy and local residents, before Coun Jim Kenyon and Reverend Paul Towner stepped in, chairing a meeting last Friday and working out a compromise.

By splitting the costs – Hereford City Council will pay for the installation of the gates and the church council will fund the fencing – work has already begun.

The new path ensures the fields are now accessible to everyone. Before climbing over a rusted metal fence was the only method of entering the field, making it nearly impossible for elderly or disabled people to enjoy the field.

Coun Kenyon called the compromise a success for anyone who wanted to get out and enjoy the countryside.

“It’s going to be a quality fence, fitting in with the fields,” said Mr Kenyon.

“It had got to a point where it was getting silly – fences were being put up, getting cut through, and then the farmer would build a bigger fence.

“This way everyone’s happy.”

Arthur Lee, of the Herefordshire Ramblers’ Association, welcomed the news.

He said:“ It’s much better to have a path open there than not have at all.”

Bins for dog walkers to dispose of their waste will also be located at both ends of the pathway to ensure the area remains clean.