Warwick District Council defends decision on Leamington park

The council has approved a proposal for participants in the women’s and men’s Bowls National Championships to park caravans and gazebos on the park for two months from 2014 until 2016 - meaning that the space will effectively be blocked off to the public.

Cllr Stephen Cross, responsible for policy on culture, said: “We are delighted to be working with Bowls England in bringing the men’s championships to Leamington and have been working hard to ensure all of our facilities are in excellent condition when welcoming a new wave of visitors to the events.

“We recognised that hosting the whole championship schedule would bring a large number of annual visitors to the area, raise the profile of the district, and show that Warwick District Council is committed to developing strong partnerships for the benefit of local residents, businesses and visitors alike.”

Clint Barnett, manager of the Thomas James Hotel on Bath Street, said: “The extension of the events to incorporate the men’s championships will be great for the area and we expect to notice a boost in trade through July and August.”

The council held a public event last week about the plans. This year’s women’s championships begin later this month.