A resident's request to turn Castle Green Car Park into a private parking area has been turned down after town councillors were advised it would be against the law.

A request discussed at the most recent finance and general services committee meeting of Kenilworth Town Council had asked for the car park normally used for the castle to become a permit-holders only facility.

But Cllr Rob Barry advised members that the unnamed resident's request would have to be refused.

He said: "Castle Green Car Park is part of the legally designated village green of the town. 

"And it would be unlawful to restrict the use of the facility for certain residents. 

"It has a complicated history and technically the car park facilitates residents' enjoyment of using the village green."

The news follows town councillors' frustrations at having to foot a £1,500 bill earlier this year for routine repair works to the gravel road surface.

Town clerk Maggie Field explained: "In our recent investigations to do with the green, things have come to light which I am not sure that you as a town council are aware of because we certainly weren't aware of aspects of it."

Cllr Andrew Milton added: "It does sound like it would be useful to have a briefing for members so at least we understand what is our responsibility and our liability for that piece of land."