The Kenilworth Connect2 project will create an off-road route for walkers and cyclists, linking the town centre with the Greenway and with Warwick University.

But at the town council's planning meeting on Tuesday Coun Andrew Mobbs said he feared plans for the new bridge "may go ahead without the usual consultation".

He added: "I would rather not see a bridge over Coventry Road and we need to get a firm view on this from residents. It is a big project that could just get through the planners at the county council."

Coun Norman Vincett added there had been a "lack of consultation with the town council and residents".

He said: "We have all seen and read of these plans but they were purely schematic plans as far as I was aware.

"I expected to be fed regular information but this hasn't happened.

"If this goes ahead it could be a loss of amenity for the residents living there. I'd like more information so we can have input into the design.

"There has been a lack of information since day one.

"In principle I applaud it, it is a terrific idea, but it needs to be done properly."

But Coun Pat Ryan said he was "astonished by the comments".

"The bridge is and always has been a key point of the original scheme - unless people were not looking at the plans properly. I don't know why we are getting hot under the collar.

"Councillors Pat Cain and Dave Shilton are both on the steering committee and this was the scheme that was voted for by thousands."

Coun John Whitehouse, chairman of the Connect2 Kenilworth Steering Group, was not at the meeting but was keen to reassure people that the plans would go through the usual channels.

He said: "We do have connections with the town council and in fact some town councillors sit on the steering group.

"The plans for the bridge will go through all the official processes and I want to assure people that nothing is cast in stone. It is a planning matter and the town council and the public will get a chance to have their say."

He added: "The artist's impression published is probably misleading and we have asked for a new image with a more simple and elegant design.

It is the gateway to the town so it is very important, but the bridge has always been a critical part of the scheme."

Coun Michael Coker concluded that the town council should arrange a briefing with Sustrans to be "fully informed and consulted".