Cllr Josh Payne, serving Cubbington & Leek Wootton

22/06/2026

Very sad indeed to learn of Michael Meadowcroft's passing on 1 June. Michael, who represented the Liberal Party as leader of Leeds City Council and then MP for Leeds West, was instrumental in bringing me into politics. In more recent years he facilitated my membership of the National Liberal Club. It was a privilege to know him and I always found him a steadfast source of sound advice. I have all his pamphlets on Liberalism at home. He wrote with a peerless integrity and his inspirational writing very much started the journey which eventually led to my becoming a Liberal Democrat councillor. I'm aiming to attend the funeral on 30 July. My sincere condolences on their recent loss to Liz and all Michael's family.

18/06/2026

The fantastic 'Arts, Eats and Treats' Festival returns to Victoria Park, Leamington this Saturday!

Are you heading to Victoria Park, Leamington Spa this Saturday for the Arts, Eats & Treats Festival? If so, we advise everyone to please use our car parks and avoid parking on residential streets, including around Archery Road, to help minimise disruption to local residents.

To find more information about the event and suitable car parks please visit our website: https://orlo.uk/9s53U

18/06/2026

Paddling Pools update. Very welcome news on the repair and reopening of the two pools. This is something I have probed council officers on, during Scrutiny meetings. Hopefully residents will be able to enjoy these Pools soon, and with the confidence that safe repairs have been made.

🌊 Paddling Pools update 🌊

We have just reached an agreement with our design and build contractor and confirms that they are committed to resolving the final programme of work and ensuring the safe reopening of both paddling pools.

Residents will see the rectification work begin next week, with the contractor responsible for the cost of the works needed.

This resolution comes after an extended period of delays and challenges including adequate contractor technical assurance, poor weather and sub-contractors’ availability, preventing progress of the rectification programme.

Cllr Will Roberts, Portfolio Holder for Neighbourhood comments:

“I am pleased to bring this good news to our residents and visitors, who have been waiting for to hear about the reopening of the paddling pools. What would not be acceptable is agreeing a rectification programme that was not fit for purpose and then needing to close the paddling pools again.

"I completely understand the frustration from residents and have been extremely frustrated myself that we haven’t been able to open the paddling pools sooner.

"The council has followed a thorough contractual process, which will now see the paddling pools completed to the safety standards and durability we expect.

"As before, each stage of the work will require a technical inspection and some work is still weather dependent, but I am determined to see both paddling pools open during the school holidays for children to enjoy. I will keep sharing regular progress updates.”

Both paddling pools were closed in 2024 due to their end of operational life, and the council took the decision to invest in a programme of work to repair and improve them, despite wider financial pressures on local government.

16/06/2026

If you haven't already, please consider a visit to the Lavender Farm in Bubbenhall. It has a fantastic cafe on site.

🪻The Warwickshire Lavender Farm is back for 2026!
Listen: https://bbc.in/4vbb0wL

15/06/2026

Please be vigilant....

We’re aware of scam text messages asking for PCN payments being circulated around. We do not issue PCNs by text.

If you receive one:
❌ Do not click links
❌ Do not share details

We are aware that some scam messages may use Warwick District Council branding, logos or website details to appear legitimate. Customers should remain vigilant and report suspicious messages by forwarding them to 7726 (SPAM) and then deleting them.

If you believe you may have disclosed personal or financial information in response to a scam message, contact your bank immediately and report the incident to Action Fraud.

14/06/2026

Very best of luck to all those participating in today's Two Castles Run! Appreciate the hard work and detailed preparations which have gone into this fantastic event. Hope the run is rewarding and the event goes well for everyone involved or watching!

08/06/2026

Many groups, charities and Parish Councils in the ward I represent have benefited from RUCIS grants in the past. Please consider applying this year if you're eligible under the rules of the scheme. I can help you navigate the process and explain the forms, benefits and eligibility criteria.

Community groups can now apply for grants of up to £20,000 through the Rural/Urban Capital Improvement Scheme (RUCIS).

The Council led initiative has been set up to support locally led not-for-profit, community organisations with capital projects such as building repairs, new facilities, equipment or measures to improve energy efficiency, with successful applicants awarded grants of up to £20,000 towards improvement projects.

Beneficiaries of the scheme during the last financial year included, Leamington Netball Club who were awarded £17,088 to resurface their courts, Leamington Lawn Tennis and Squash Club have made further upgrades to their floodlights to LEDS with a grant of £20,000. Heathcote Community Centre who were awarded a grant of £15,555 grant to replace the flooring in their sports hall, which has enabled them to host local groups for a variety of sports related activities.

Find out more: https://orlo.uk/ttXpp

02/06/2026

01/06/2026

Looking forward to this Saturday - thanks to Kenilworth Agricultural Show.

The free hourly bus service from Abbey End to the Show is funded by Kenilworth Town Council.

The countdown is on! In just 5 days time, the showground will be buzzing with livestock, horses, live music, machinery, shopping, food, family entertainment and so much more.

There's still time to get involved:

Homecraft entries remain open until Wednesday – whether it's baking, crafts, photography or produce. https://www.kenilworthshow.co.uk/homecraft

Have you got your tickets yet? Save money by buying before the day and take advantage of the reduced pre-show ticket prices. https://www.kenilworthshow.co.uk/buytickets

With lots of exciting new attractions for 2026, a packed Main Ring programme, live entertainment on the Village Green, and the ever-popular livestock, equine and machinery sections, it's shaping up to be a fantastic day out for all the family.

30/05/2026

A new swimming pool is set to open after being delayed by the discovery of medieval ruins. Details via comments,