Kenilworth to Berkswell Greenway
The railway branch line from Berkswell to Kenilworth Junction was opened in 1884. It effectively provided a short cut avoiding Coventry for freight trains heading south. Rumour has it that it was used in the war for the transport of munitions and the siding at Berkswell, left when the track was lifted in the 1960s, was used for 'parking' the Royal Train when the Queen visited the area. Later, even the siding was removed to make way for a station car park.
Left to itself, the old railway became a wildlife corridor. Hawthorn, birch and other plants quickly took hold and softened the edges, animals and birds found cover for dens and nests. People also found a traffic free route to and from Crackley Wood where, if you were quiet, you might see a fox.
Warwickshire County Council took ownership of the route in the 70's but apart from work to clear a wider path, it was left to the walkers and the wildlife.
The Greenway, as well as being a linear Country Park, is a permissive bridleway which means that it can be used by pedestrians, cyclists and horse-riders. Kissing gates have been installed to prevent unauthorised access by motorbikes, and horse-riders will need to buy an annual permit for a key to get onto the Greenway. Contact Kingsbury Water Park on 01827 872660 for further information.
The track is segregated with a natural grass track for horses and a firm track - made from recycled materials and Derbyshire limestone - for other users. Access has been improved where the Greenway crosses roads or joins other routes.
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How we did it.
Step 1 Lay recycled surface
Step 2 Flatten it
Step 3 Top with stone
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| The next stage is work with Sustrans on the bridge over the A426, access from there to the centre of Kenilworth and works to provide a bridleway link across to the University land. | | |