A WYE Valley road which has been closed for 18 months is now a step closer to reopening.

The single track C1257 road at Symonds Yat West was closed in June 2018 after a stone wall and the nearby road collapsed.

Currently, the only alternative for residents to access the 40 properties is via Ferrie Lane Byway alongside the River Wye to the rear of The Old Ferrie Inn.

An appeal was rejected a judge and ruled the notice served by Herefordshire Council to the owners of the wall in April 2019 was valid, and it is their responsibility to repair the damage

The council was advised it must now give reasonable time must be given for action to take place, in accordance with the section 167 of the Highways Act notice.

Coun John Harrington, cabinet member for infrastructure and transport, said: "We are sensitive to the impact this closure continues to have on the local community and we fully understand that feelings of frustration have grown during this lengthy process.

"We would like to thank local residents and businesses for their continued patience.

"We have endeavoured at all times to treat all with respect and consideration, and we regret that legal action became necessary.

"Our priority remains the same as it was eighteen months ago: to ensure the road can safely be reopened at the earliest opportunity.

"We will continue to work with the owners of the wall to make sure that this happens, and we will notify residents once further details are available."