The path through the hedge

Original non-fiction-style practice text.

For years, people have crossed the grass through a gap in the hedge. The official path turns sharply left, circles three beds and returns to a point barely beyond the gap. This spring, a sign appeared asking visitors to respect the landscaping. The worn route has received no explanation of why it should respect the sign.

I do not believe every desire for a shortcut must determine a garden's design. Plants need protection, and some routes exist for reasons a hurried visitor may not notice. But a line made by hundreds of ordinary journeys is information, not simply an insult to a drawing.

Before replacing the hedge again, watch where people are trying to go. A better path might protect the plants more effectively than another warning. The grass has been taking notes for years. It would be sensible, at least once, to read them.

Assess the writer’s attitude towards the unofficial footpath. Use three details from the text to support your answer.