The district council has been criticised for a lack of communication over plans to turn the former Kenilworth School sites into new housing estates.

Warwick District Council (WDC) now has possession of both the Rouncil Lane and Leyes Lane buildings, following the school's move to Glasshouse Lane in September 2023.

The two plots are allocated for housing, but following a public information event last year, very little information has been given to locals.

Speaking at last week's full council meeting, Cllr Kate Dickson said: "In both Park Hill ward and in Kenilworth St John's ward we have neighbours who live close to Kenilworth school sites. 

"We hear from these residents they are losing trust in the council because of the lack of communications and of any consultation for plans of these WDC owned housing sites. 

"The delay in bringing forward fully consulted plans for these sites is set against rising numbers of people in our district with a recognised housing need, including those who are homeless, and evidence we have a reducing five-year land supply. 

"I recognise the ambition of this administration to deliver example housing, and I would ask that this project includes an exempla assessment of housing needs, example consultation and communication with residents and Kenilworth Town Council and the rest of the WDC councillors, and exmapla quality and speedy delivery of suitable housing for residents in Kenilworth."

In response portfolio holder for climate change, Cllr Lowell Williams said there was "nothing significant" to report, but admitted more communication was needed from the council.

The Green Party councillor explained the "ambitious scheme" is taking longer as the councils looks to build the highest standard homes possible in terms of energy efficiency.

"I'm sure you have watched - as have I - watched the development of swathes of houses in Kenilworth," he said. 

"Some people are calling them 'anywhere houses'. 

"Houses with solar panels and air source heat pumps which are in view are the ones this council has done something to bring about. 

"Houses that are brought forward by developers who are only focusing on their own short-term profit have installed gas heating which will need to be retrofitted in the future at the cost of taxpayers and the residents themselves. 

"It is a bit of a toxic paradigm for us to be in. 

"That is why we want to do something better at our sites on Leyes Lane and Rouncil Lane - but that does take a bit of time."

Cllr Richard Hales also asked for dates and a timeline for the project - which Cllr Williams said he would put together.

Security around the sites has also previously been an issue, after a TikTok video was shared on social media showing someone accessing the sixth form buildings.