A Kenilworth town councillor has said it is "really disappointing" that the toddler play area will be closed on weekdays during school holidays as the Abbey Fields Leisure Centre is demolished and rebuilt.

Warwick District Council confirmed earlier this month that the play area would be closed on weekdays throughout the redevelopment.

By Cllr Richard Dickson said at last night's Kenilworth Town Council meeting (October 21): "I think it is a real disappointment, it is a major amenity for local residents and a tourist facility as well."

He added: "The playground will be closed during the week, and that includes during the week of the school holidays and half terms.

"This is contrary to the written statement from the council in response to a question that I raised last November when it was said that Kier had confirmed that it would be possible to keep open the toddler playground.

"It subsequently became clear that that confirmation could not be adhered to."

The district council announced at the start of September that contracts had been signed for the demolition and redevelopment of the leisure centre.

WDC also confirmed that the children's playground and tennis courts will be closed during the works, although the play area will remain open at weekends for the entirety of the project - this began yesterday (October 20).

The older children's play area will remain open, but is likely to be closed off at some points during the work.