Kenilworth Town Council has objected to a planning application that could see at least 550 new houses built in the town.

The application by Barwood Development Securities Ltd is for the development of the 'Land at Thickthorn.'

The site, which is earmarked for housing in the local plan, is found in the triangle of land between A46, Leamington Road and Glasshouse Lane. Behind Kenilworth Rugby Club and existing housing on Thickthorn Close.

The application is split into two parts. Firstly there is a full planning application for 98 houses, and then a second outline application for up to 452 extra houses, and other amenities.

The town council's planning committee has raised objections to the proposals due to the access road to the site from the Leamington Road (A452).

The council's objection letter states: "It would appear reasonable to assume that southbound traffic from St John's gyratory may use this new route as a 'rat run' to access the whole of the East Kenilworth development."

Councillors also raised concerns that vehicles using the access road would cause traffic jams along the A452 and up the roundabout.

The council added: "Members ask that WCC Highways be requested to give this additional access full consideration with respect to the A452 and the traffic flow within the development and report on this as part of their response to this application."

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Kenilworth Town Council also added in its statement that "they would welcome any proposal to take on board a Fabric First approach to housing design."

This is in light of the council's declared climate emergency.

The town council had originally made objections in January, however these have been revised following an update from a Warwick District Council planning officer.