Sections of public footpaths in Ely have been closed unlawfully – sparking anger from a campaign group.

Network Rail has apologised for not following the "correct processes" before shutting footpaths 17 and 57, which cross the railway line on either side of the River Lark to the east of Ely.

Ely footpath 50, which connects to the Bishops Way circular route between Ely, Chettisham and Little Downham, also has a misleading notice stating that it is closed.

Network Rail says it has closed the paths where they cross the railway line because they had "significant safety concerns", but the Open Spaces Society, Britain's oldest national conservation body, is furious.

The society's local correspondent, Alysoun Hodges, said: "We deplore Network Rail's pre-emptive action in closing public footpaths before any decision has been made about them.

"These paths are highways in law and should be reopened forthwith.

"We understand that Network Rail is applying retrospectively for a traffic regulation order to close footpaths 17 and 57, but of course it should have applied for this first.

"We have urged the county council, which is responsible for keeping paths clear of obstruction, to take swift action to ensure that everyone can use and enjoy these paths."

Network Rail is currently carrying out a consultation on the potential closure of path crossings over railways lines in East Anglia, but the public inquiry is not due to be held for another year.

As a result, all paths are still highways in law.

A Network Rail spokesman said: "Following an inspection, we had significant safety concerns with insufficient sighting at these crossings and closed them straight away.

"Whilst we recognise in this instance the correct process wasn't followed, we felt that the safety concerns warranted an immediate closure."

A county council spokesman said: "Maintaining Rights of Way are important to us and our communities.

"We have contacted Network Rail to have the paths either reinstated or as in some cases where they have been closed for safety reasons more suitable alternatives put in place as soon as possible."