New plans to improve Kenilworth's leisure centres

The project, which is still in its early stages, will focus on improving the current facilities at Abbey Fields and Castle Farm. It is hoped the details will be finalised by the end of the year for the council to consider.

The news follows the council agreeing to fund major improvements to leisure centres at Newbold Comyn in Leamington and at St Nicholas Park in Warwick.

If the details are finalised and the project is approved, the council believes the improvements will benefit Kenilworth’s residents for the next 30 years.

Leader of the Council, Cllr Andrew Mobbs, said: “We are clearly excited that these discussions have now commenced and we will ensure that local people are consulted as the plans develop.

“We know that the current facilities are valued and well used, and these emerging plans will ensure that we have the right facilities in Kenilworth for the future.”

Cllr Michael Coker, Deputy Leader and Culture Portfolio Holder, said: “The council is working extremely hard to ensure that the district continues to enjoy high quality leisure facilities which offer a wide range of activities for all the family.

“Providing opportunities for all the community to lead an active life is a high priority for the council, and will be a major factor as we develop these plans for Kenilworth.”

The project is likely to focus on improving swimming facilities, indoor sports provision, and health and fitness.

It will also co-ordinate with the potential move of Kenilworth Wardens to Castle Farm after the council approved in principle the move of the club to the site in June.

Although the move has not been completely agreed, if the Wardens do move to Castle Farm the club will have exclusive access to the facilities for an unspecified number of hours a week, as well as the exclusive use of the second field.

Wardens will pay the council a large one-off fee if the move goes ahead, which will be used to help fund the council’s project.

The project will also take into account the requirements of Kenilworth Scouts, who are currently based at Castle Farm.

Kenilworth sports clubs and other groups will be consulted on their thoughts as the project progresses.