Programme updates: Kenilworth Gate
This page provides a summary of work planned in and around Kenilworth over the coming months.
Schemes covered include Vistry Glasshouse Lane Roundabout, Persimmon Thickthorn Priority Junction, Persimmon Thickthorn Signals and Persimmon Left In-Left Out Junction.
What are the current proposals to address the pedestrian safety concerns for residents at the Kenilworth Gate?
The preferred option is the uncontrolled crossing as per the planning permission. Where this cannot be achieved, a suitable alternative would be the provision of a controlled crossing facility north of the LILO junction.
Is there an alternative route for residents of Kenilworth Gate to walk to Kenilworth Town?
In the meantime, the existing pedestrian route via Thickthorn Close remains the safe and appropriate interim route. Whilst less direct, it provides a connection towards Kenilworth School and the town centre without requiring pedestrians to cross Leamington Road at an uncontrolled location.
Were other permanent options explored?
An alternative proposal for an exemption from the safety audit recommendation was to have a footway link within the Section 38 works between the LILO junction and the new signalised junction at Leamington Road. This engineering option was discounted as it would not deter most pedestrians from continuing to cross Leamington Road near the LILO or using the existing narrow verge that connects the LILO junction and the Kenilworth Lodge.
The Road Safety Panel’s position is that a more direct and safe pedestrian solution must be provided.
Could any temporary safety measures be put in place?
We recognise the concerns raised, particularly in relation to pedestrian safety and accessibility. Considering this, we are prepared to explore the potential for a temporary speed reduction. This would be considered as part of a trial or interim arrangement to help facilitate the introduction of an uncontrolled pedestrian crossing across the Leamington Road at the LILO junction. Should this option be progressed, appropriate consultation would be undertaken.
Why is there only one bus stop at the primary entrance of Leamington Road?
The location proposed for the southbound bus stop in the Traffic Signals Scheme will not be possible due the steep gradients of the proposed verge.
Ideally, a route to bus stop should be safe, direct, convenient, and accessible for people of all abilities, and without excessive gradient. In addition, bus stops must offer a safe, stable waiting environment with space for shelters, and boarding areas.
The steep gradients along the northern verge for southbound traffic will not permit these key parameters to be met, most importantly to allow wheelchair and buggy access. It is therefore not possible to accommodate a new southbound bus stop in the Traffic Signal Scheme.
There is a high volume of fast-moving traffic; can the speed limit be reduced?
A permanent reduction in the speed limit is not supported at this time, based on the assessment criteria and evidence available. These considerations include factors such as the road function and traffic composition, road geometry and engineering features and level of frontage development, all of which indicate that a 30mph limit would not be appropriate.
Why wasn’t a controlled crossing considered at the planning stage?
WCC’s S278 Team was not involved at the planning stages of this scheme.
When will the formal response to the Petition be issued by WCC, following its presentation to the Council 16 December 2025?
The Council acknowledges the strength of feeling expressed through the petition and has attended site meetings in order to prepare the response, however we apologise and recognise the delay in responding. The final response was sent by WCC and received by Kenilworth Town Council on Monday, May 11th.
Is WCC looking at any other alternative options at this time?
As of May 2026, WCC will explore two possible options; one in relation to a temporary speed limit and one in relation to a footway on Leamington Road. We will also be looking into the possibility of providing a footway on the Kenilworth Lodge side of the road.
In summary, can WCC explain where they currently stand in terms of progress at Kenilworth Gate – LILO scheme?
In summary:
- The current junction arrangement is not the final approved design.
- The scheme remains within the Section 278 technical review stage.
- Provision of a controlled pedestrian crossing facility north of the LILO junction.
- Officers continue to work collaboratively with Persimmon Homes for the permanent solution to be progressed and are exploring whether any appropriate interim measure may be feasible.