Police respond to reports of intimidating behaviour towards contractors working on Leamington cycle trails

Warwickshire Police have been called to deal with reported “threatening behaviour and intimidation” towards contractors working on cycle trails at Newbold Comyn in Leamington.

Work began late last year on the controversial project to turn a large part of the former golf course at Newbold Comyn into trails for cyclists and is expected to be completed by the summer.

Some campaigners say that the work is causing destruction to a much-loved green space in town and the work is going beyond what was promised by Warwick District Council (WDC). But WDC said the plans are on track – and has released a statement to report that some of those working on the trails have suffered “intimidating behaviour” by those opposed to the scheme.

The campaigners dismissed these claims, saying that they were simply talking to the workers and that no laws were broken. Warwickshire Police confirmed they attended and spoke to people but no offences were recorded, adding: “We continue to monitor the situation.”

The leader of WDC, Cllr Andrew Day, said: “The actions of a vocal minority who are seeking to intimidate our contractors working to create the Newbold Comyn cycle trails, has caused personal concern and undue stress.

"This behaviour is unwarranted and wholly unacceptable.

“Our contractors and staff should be free to carry out their duties unfettered, without fear or intimidation.”

“To accuse our contractors of wrongdoing and to seek to personally intimidate them when going out about their business, is of serious concern.

"I would like to thank officers from Warwickshire Police for their swift response in dealing with this matter and for confirming that immediate action will be taken should this unacceptable behaviour reoccur.”

"I can assure residents that the attempt by a vocal minority to intimidate our contractors and council officers will not divert efforts to implement the agreed Newbold Comyn Masterplan in full, for the benefit of all.”

Campaigners have previously told the Courier and Weekly News that many objections to the controversial scheme on a section of the former golf course area of the Comyn were “totally ignored” by the landowner and project leader (WDC).

But cyclists said the area will be repaired and the majority of comments from people using the Comyn are very positive.