A PUBLIC inquiry into a disputed public right of way has started.

Inspector Sue Arnott officially opened proceedings at Crook Civic Centre yesterday.

She will be looking at whether an access road to Victoria Cottages from Howden-le-Wear should be opened to the public and whether to confirm a modification order made by Durham County Council's Highway Committee in April.

The order was made after the council backed a petition by residents to make the private track a public right of way.

However, residents who own and maintain the track objected, meaning the public inquiry was opened.

Representatives from the council and residents Jason Groves and Julie Smith, on behalf of the objectors, made their opening statements yesterday and called witnesses to give evidence.

Mrs Arnott said she expected the inquiry to last a maximum of two days.

The final decision will be made by the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.