A BRIDGE TOO FAR

A WEBSITE designer is hoping to get his message across that he is not happy with the proposed design of a Kenilworth bridge – by coming up with his own.

Jon Foster-Smith, of New Street, Kenilworth, is calling on residents to give their true opinion on a bridge that will go over Coventry Road.

In 2007, Warwickshire County Council and Sustrans – a sustainable transport charity – secured a portion of £50million of Big Lottery Fund to develop the disused Kenilworth-Berkswell railway line and turn it into a leisure route.

They submitted a variety of designs last summer and opened a public consultation to gather
people’s opinion.

The most popular bridge (pictured below right) was picked and will go before a council meeting next month to get planning permission.

But Jon, who runs his own web design company called Shine Design, thinks the bridge has no character.

The 37-year-old said: “As a kid, I remember the landmarks I saw on a car journey as a child. Things like bridges were good at giving a place an identity, which is why I feel a sense of
embarrassment and concern that we are leaving little of value for future generations.

“To me, the proposed bridge would be more in keeping over the M40 than a gateway to our
town.

“It seems like something you can buy off the shelf, that will do the job and deter vandalism.

“This is why I’ve mocked up these designs to show what else could be done.”

A final report will be produced on February 9 and a public meeting is taking place at 10am on
February 23, in Shire Hall, Warwick.

Councillor John Whitehouse (Lib Dem, Kenilworth Abbey) said: “I am aware of Mr Foster-Smith’s views and think it’s great he’s expressing his opinion.

“But the general opinion of people that viewed the designs back in the summer at the Kenilworth library was in favour of this design.

“They wanted something simple, but if anyone has any objections then they can voice them at a meeting next week.”

For more information on the bridge plans visit www.connect2kenilworth.org.uk.

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