A SEAFRONT path which links Old Leigh with Chalkwell may be widened to allow access for both walkers and cyclists.

The narrow Cinder Path could incorporate a new boardwalk for people walking, while cyclists could use the existing track.

Geoff Fulford, Leigh Town Council clerk, said both the town Council and Southend Council are keen for a cycle track from Bell Wharf to Chalkwell rail station.

He said: "It has been on the cards for eight to ten years.

"It will be very difficult and very expensive, al-though both Southend Council and Leigh Town Council would like to do it.

"One of the things we are looking at is to build out over the sea defences.

"There are proposals to build a boardwalk with vantage points for walkers and then cyclists could use the existing Cinder Path."

Cyclists are currently banned from riding along the path and face a fine if caught on their bikes Nigel Brigham, eastern regional director for Sustrans, a sustainable transport charity, said: "The improvements would complete a missing section along Southend seafront and provide a vital link in National Cycle Network route 16 running along the coast."

Last month, Southend Council announced it has bid for cash from Cycling England which aims to promote cycling across the country and has £47million to share out between one city and ten towns.