WORKMEN at Newbold Comyn have been the targets of verbal abuse following the closure of an unsafe footbridge.
Warwick District Council, who manages the large country park and nature reserve in Leamington, made the decision to close the footbridge until further notice amid structural concerns.
WDC advised visitors wishing to access Newbold Comyn from the Radford Road entrance to find an alternative route.
The decision, however, has already led to one member of the public hurling abuse at workmen and council chiefs are warning other residents that further verbal, or physical abuse, would not be tolerated.
WDC neighbourhood spokesperson Coun Will Roberts said: “The safety of the public is our priority. We therefore had no option but to close the bridge immediately while we establish what measures and repair work are needed to bring it safely back into use.
“We completely understand the inconvenience that this will cause, and staff and contractors are working hard to reopen the bridge at the earliest opportunity. However, sadly, there has already been an incident of verbal abuse towards our contract team at the site, which is completely unacceptable.
“There is a zero-tolerance approach to any verbal and physical abuse or threats to any staff or contractors. I hope this was a one-off event and I would like to thank everyone in advance for their patience while this situation is resolved.”
The car park at Radford Road remains open, but pedestrians are advised to use the alternative entrances to the park from the Willes Road or Newbold Terrace East.
