READERS' LETTERS: Abbey Fields path changes will damage Kenilworth’s treasure - our open space is in jeopardy!
By Clive Peacock 2nd Jun 2025
A letter from Kenilworth Nub News reader Clive Peacock on the future of Abbey Fields amidst a public consultation on the public footpaths.
To many in the town, the proposals for greater provision for e bikes, off-road bikes and domestic bikes in Abbey Fields are extremely alarming.
May I urge all residents to consider the new plans for this increase in traffic with great care.
To do this diligently requires residents to attend one of the Warwick District Council/ Sustrans /Green councillor sponsored consultations.
Sadly, the consultation document (hard copy and online drawings) does not adequately present a true picture of the damage which would be done.
One only remaining public consultation will be held at the Kenilworth Centre on 2 June at 10am. Without sight of the detailed plans it is not possible to appreciate the damage these proposals will foist upon the town's treasure.
Sustrans promotes cycling of all types and claims to "reshape the built environment".
My goodness, these plans will dramatically reshape Abbey Fields, denying residents the peace and quiet Abbey Fields has traditionally afforded.
Existing paths may be retained or disappear to be replaced by "significantly new wider paths" – three metres, the path to the southern border will be new construction on virgin ground across Abbey Fields meadow.
Yes, three metres wide; that is very close to 10 feet, hardly a pathway, closer to being a road!
Unanswered questions include - what will be the speed limits? How will planters "push pedestrian and cycle movements away from existing opening doors at the pool?" Will painting SLOW on this new 10 feet wide path have any impact?
The by law in place at present states no cycling.
In answer to questions about the cost [at a public information event], the response was "about £200,000".
Please challenge the cost of the 10 foot paths/roads, street furniture, planters and the WCC Bridge Street proposal; £200,000 sounds remarkably cheap!
WDC denied Kenilworth the retention of one of the town's unique selling points - the "outdoor pool" which had been in situ for 137 years.
WDC/ SUSTRANS are now attempting to significantly change the character of Abbey Fields. Please say an emphatic NO to these proposal.
Clive Peacock
Read more about the public consultation here.
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