Kenilworth residents, visitors, and park users are invited to share their views on "exciting new proposals" for Abbey Fields as part of the 'A Path for Our Future' public consultation.

Warwick District Council (WDC) wants to hear views on the proposed new cycle path for the park.

The consultation - which will run until Wednesday, 12 June 2025 - has been delayed over the past few months.

WDC wants to hear from everyone who enjoys Abbey Fields – "whether you walk, wheel, cycle, run, play, or simply relax in the park".

The proposals include plans for a new accessible, shared-use path "designed to improve connections" across Abbey Fields and "enhance the space for all users".

Developed in partnership with Warwick District Council, Warwickshire County Council, and Sustrans (a UK-based walking, wheeling and cycling charity), these plans aim to "support active travel, protect the park's historic character, and ensure everyone can continue to enjoy this much-loved green space".

There are three sections to the Abbey Fields shared use path proposal, each of which have their own suggested upgrades within them.

Views are sought on:

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Section A - Borrowell Lane to Finham Brook

1. Creating a new three-metre wide path
2. Permitting cycling on the new path
3. Adding more seating

Section B - Path around new swimming pool (including duck feeding platform area)

1. Permitting cycling
2. Enhancing signs
3. Separating the duck feeding area from the path

Section C - Swimming Pool to Bridge Street

1. Permitting cycling.
2. Enhancing signs and markings.
3. Creating new access path at Bridge Street entrance

Feedback from this survey will help shape the final designs, "ensuring they reflect the needs and priorities of the community".

How to get involved:

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• Visit the council website to complete the survey online.
• Paper copies are available on request for those without internet access, please contact [email protected] to request yours.

Feedback events will also be held over the coming weeks.

Cllr Lowell Williams, portfolio holder for decarbonisation said: "Abbey Fields holds a special place in the heart of our community.

"This is a chance for everyone who loves and uses the park to help shape its future and I would urge as many people as possible to take part in the consultation and have their say." 

WDC's cabinet last year committed to ask residents for their views on the scheme, over a year after it had chosen a preferred route.

The six-week consultation was expected to start in early 2025 but was delayed due to the Warwickshire County Council elections.

Historic England has also caused delays to the project as it raised concerns about the route the link would take through Abbey Fields.