A DILAPIDATED footpath that offers disabled and elderly people the only possible route to Malvern Link station's western platform is to be resurfaced and have street lights installed.

The path, leased by Central Trains from Railtrack's successor, is to be adopted by Worcestershire County Council.

It was not previously deemed to be a public footpath because one of its exits leads only on to private land.

Mike Davis, manager of the Highways Partnership, said the move came as a result of the council's policy of encouraging sustainable transport.

Resurfacing work is expected to begin in October, when ducts will be laid in preparation for lights.

Mr Davis was unable to say how long the work would take as sub-contractors will have to be appointed to install the wiring for the street lights.

He pledged the authority would "issue the orders for the work straight away".

David Anthony, of Quest Hills Road, Malvern, has been campaigning for two years to have the path resurfaced.

He said its steepness, its surface of large, rough stones and poor condition made it a danger to disabled and elderly people, especially during winter.

"It's about time, too," said Mr Anthony. "It could be a path on the Malvern Hills.

"Once upon a time, there used to be two people in the ticket office, and one of them could see people over the line, but now there is only ever one person there."

Central Trains welcomed plans to give the footpath a facelift.