The Portfolio Holder for Transport and Planning, Councillor Jennifer Warren, met on Friday 12 June 2026 to discuss traffic regulation orders in Kenilworth and a proposed road numbering strategy in South West Rugby. A decision on the Crewe Lane Traffic Regulation Orders was deferred to allow for a site visit, while the road numbering strategy for South West Rugby was approved.

Crewe Lane, Kenilworth, Traffic Regulation Orders

A decision on proposed traffic regulation orders for Crewe Lane in Kenilworth was deferred to allow for a site visit. The orders aim to introduce a 30 mph speed limit and prohibit motor vehicles on a section of the narrow, rural lane. These measures are intended to manage traffic generated by a major housing development planned nearby, directing vehicles to a purpose-built spine road and making Crewe Lane safer for walking, cycling, and local access.

The proposals faced significant public objection, with 71 individuals and two organisations objecting to the prohibition of motor vehicles, and two respondents objecting to the 30 mph speed limit. Common concerns included reduced access to and from Kenilworth, longer detours, and the potential for increased traffic on other routes. Objectors also suggested alternative solutions for Crewe Lane, such as widening the road or implementing traffic calming measures.

Warwickshire County Council's response highlighted that the new spine road, Oakley Road and Lancelotte Avenue, is designed to provide an alternative route and that access to Kenilworth will be maintained. The council also noted that the proposals for Crewe Lane have been part of longstanding plans to downgrade the road and provide more suitable alternatives. Concerns about the timing of road closures were addressed by proposing that the prohibition of motor vehicles on Crewe Lane would be delayed until the temporary closure of Dalehouse Lane ends and a new roundabout at the junction of Glasshouse Lane, Oakley Road, and Stansfield Grove is constructed.

The council also outlined a phased timeline for the implementation of the orders, with the 30 mph speed limit potentially commencing in July 2026, and the prohibition of motor vehicles in Spring/Summer 2027, subject to the completion of associated works. Funding for the scheme is largely secured through a Section 106 developer contribution of £600,871.05.

Proposed Road Numbering Strategy - South West Rugby

Councillor Jennifer Warren approved the proposed road numbering strategy for South West Rugby. This decision designates the Homestead Link Road (HLR) and Potsford Dam Link (PDL) as A class roads, with the HLR to be numbered A4257 and the PDL to be numbered A4193.

These new roads are key elements of the strategic transport infrastructure for the South West Rugby development, which is allocated for up to 5,000 new dwellings and significant employment land. The HLR will serve as a northern bypass for Dunchurch village and provide access to the Strategic Road Network, while the PDL will link the A45/M45 Thurlaston Interchange with the A4071 Rugby Western Relief Road.

The classification of these roads as A class is based on predicted traffic flows, which are expected to be comparable to or higher than existing A class roads in the area. The HLR is projected to carry approximately 16,410 vehicles per day, with 1.3% HGVs, while the PDL is estimated to carry around 16,500 vehicles per day, with a higher proportion of 9.8% HGVs, due to its role in serving logistics units and its strategic link function.

The Department for Transport (DfT) has reserved two A road numbers for these projects, and the council has decided on the assignment of these numbers. The financial implications for the council are minimal, as the developers will fund the signing strategies for the new roads. Once constructed and adopted, the council will be responsible for their maintenance. The environmental benefits include improved local air quality by reducing congestion at capacity-constrained junctions.