Kenilworth is too often thought of as the "poor relation" in Warwick district, one of the town's business owners has said.

Speaking at last week's Kenilworth Town Council meeting, owner of Kenilworth Books Judy Brook asked councillors what is being done to support retailers in the town centre, and to boost the local economy.

Her question came particularly on the back of suggestions the council may consider employing a town centre manager.

"I am deeply passionate about our town and our community," Judy said. 

"Throughout the years I have participated in a range of groups and initiatives aimed at enhancing Kenilworth as a great place to live and work.

"The success of these efforts has varied but the underlying motivation has always been to contribute positively to our local area.

"Unfortunately, I have increasingly heard the sentiment that Kenilworth is often perceived as the 'poor relation' compared to Leamington and Warwick. 

"This is disappointing."

Judy said there is a "wealth of innovative thinking" in the town and said "Kenilworth can truly thrive" if there is "joined-up" thinking.

Her words came on the back of the launch of 'Shop Kenilworth', a new initiative launched by a series of local firms looking to promote independent retailers in the town centre.

Shop Kenilworth was launched earlier this year (image by Nub News)

Judy asked how the council will ensure a town centre manager would connect properly with local businesses, should a role be created.

In response Cllr Kate Dickson said no decisions have been made on the position but said the town council is committed to working with local businesses.

"Any plans are in their infancy," she said. 

"One thing we are thinking of planning in the not too distant future now is to look at the strategy and aims of where we are going in the future. 

"This is particularly in light of local government reorganisation." 

Cllr Dickson continued: "One of the possibilities may be we could be employing somebody - it would definitely be in collaboration with local businesses and where they are thinking of going. 

"It may be that we employ someone on an ad hoc basis for events or maybe we look at the roles we are already covering across our staff and our councillors, there may be a work stream available. 

"Absolutely we would really welcome any collaboration we can have with the business community and we are really grateful for all that you are doing for the town."

Cllr Neal Eaton continued: "One thing I keep taking from local government reorganisation is the role of town councils, especially in our tier of government and bringing along the local community and putting forward motions and ideas. 

"I hope Kenilworth can be at the forefront of what is going on around Warwickshire. 

"It is these ideas we can work on and build up on so we can get ahead."