CONSERVATION work has begun at a popular open space near Princes Risborough this week.

Buckinghamshire County Council's Rifle Range is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and is a nationally important site for wildflowers, insects and birds.

Steven Adams, Cabinet Member for the Environment, said that during the next few weeks conservationist teams would clear invasive scrub and undergrowth to improve access.

The Ridgeway and other footpaths will be closed for a maximum of six weeks while work goes on.

Alternative paths around the area will be clearly signed and advance notices placed on boundary gates.