Residents at a new Kenilworth housing estate have rallied behind a petition calling for improved safety around the development.

Some 700 people have backed the calls for a pedestrian crossing and a reduced speed limit around Kenilworth Gate on Leamington Road.

Launched in October, the petition comes after months of criticism from local councillors who have raised concerns that there is currently no walkway to the major new housing development across the A452.

Kenilworth Gate locals said they are "desperate" for the speed limit to be made 30mph and for a safe crossing to be installed.

The 'footpath' residents have been forced to use along Leamington Road (image supplied)

"This junction at Kenilworth Gate is a key route for families, schoolchildren, elderly residents, and commuters," the petition said.

"The absence of a safe crossing and the current speed limit pose serious risks to pedestrians and cyclists.

"Many residents have reported near misses and difficulty crossing safely, especially during peak hours."

The residents need to hit 1,000 signatures by the end of November to have the petition discussed by the local authority, and are calling on locals to get behind the movement as they hope to present it in December.

Campaigners say they have called on their personal and professional networks, dropped leaflets door to door, met with councillors and begun preparations for a resident-led open meeting presentation.

Next they hope to set up at Sainsbury's on Warwick Road to encourage more local people to sign - subject to permission from the shop. 

"The way the community has come together with a mix of tenacity and hope to achieve our goal of a reduced 30mph speed limit and new crossing, feels very special," one resident said to Nub News.

Campaigners have also shared photos and videos which they say illustrate the dangers of trying to cross Leamington Road from the Kenilworth Gate estate entrance.

Planning permission for the Kenilworth Gate housing estate was approved in 2021. The development will eventually see 550 homes, a community centre, two primary schools and a major piece of employment land built.

Locals have also asked for a new bus stop built on Leamington Road close to the Thickthorn roundabout.

See the petition here.

Planning permission for the Kenilworth Gate housing estate was approved in 2021 (image supplied)