The name Meadow Walk conjures up pleasant images of a gentle stroll through the Norfolk countryside.

But anyone tackling the Fakenham footpath would have to run the gauntlet of bedraggled brambles and an extraordinary wall of unkempt weeds stretching across the route.

North Norfolk District Council has been receiving several complaints about the path, which runs parallel to Thorpland Road, facing farmland on the northern edge of the town.

Housing21 has said those who live in Fakenham are the ones who use the pathway and not those at the extra care home.Complaints were sent to North Norfolk District Council about the state of the hedge encroaching onto the path. (Image: Supplied)

Christopher Cushing, district councillor for the area, said in one instance a cyclist had become entangled in a bramble, which got caught around his neck.

After the concerns were raised, the greenery was eventually strimmed back.

But locals are concerned that confusion over who is responsible could lead to delays in the future.

The path runs next to Meadow Walk Extra Care Home and Fakenham Medical Practice.

Christopher Cushing has said he will try to facilitate communication where possible.Christopher Cushing has said he will try to facilitate communication where possible. (Image: North Norfolk District Council)
The care home, which opened in 2021, is managed by Housing 21, which the district council contacted and asked to cut back the undergrowth.

However, the company says that responsibility actually rests with Medcentres, which developed the site.

Under an agreement, Housing 21 is not due to take on the maintenance of the path until 2026.

However, the company also says that because the path is mostly used by people from the town, rather than residents of the home, the town council would be best placed to take on its ownership and maintenance.

North Norfolk District Council received complaints of passers-by getting caught in the brambles of the overgrown hedge. North Norfolk District Council received complaints of passers-by getting caught in the brambles of the overgrown hedge. (Image: Supplied)
A spokesman for Housing 21 said: "Medcentres, the developer of Meadow Walk, is responsible for the maintenance of the path that runs next to Meadow Walk. Earlier last week they trimmed the hedge that was encroaching on the path.

"As the path is primarily used by members of the public rather than residents of Meadow Walk, we intend to start discussions with Fakenham Town Council about transferring ownership of the land to the town council but cannot comment further at this time."

Medcentres has been approached for comment.