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Warren Close, LEAMINGTON SPA, CV32 6LA

A classic Leamingtonian conjunction: 20th century box contrasted with older villas in Lillington Road.

Warren Close was extended and doubled in length through the disposal of part of the ground: an unfortunate precedent because developers would like the rest.

Something of a rat-run in north Leamington, it was laid out "by about 1924" but the housebuilders were slow to develop it, so the houses are of all styles, sizes and ages. The trees are Silver Maple (Acer saccharinum), planted perhaps as an alternative to Common Lime, of which there are a number of over-mature but loved-or-loathed avenues in the Victorian town. However, Silver Maple has proved just as problematic as a street tree. Wind pressure can cause large branches to fall because the wood is brittle. Management of individual trees and the succession of an avenue arouses strong feelings among the public - and the professionals. Another view is Image

This open area has been landscaped to hold water to prevent flooding elsewhere in Leamington. Here it can be seen doing its job, after the heavy storm that resulted in the rainbow as it moved away.

The Midland Oak is an oak tree on the boundary between Lillington and Leamington Spa. A plaque at the site claims that the tree marks the centre of England. The present tree was planted in the 1990s, the previous oak tree was planted in the mid 20th century, replacing the original centuries old Midland Oak.

Attractive home of Leamington Cricket Club in Arlington Avenue.

Bronze plaque on a granite base.

The photographer's bicycle leans against the commemorative plaque next to the tree - details of which can be found on David Stowell's 2005 photo Image We can see how the tree has grown in the intervening 5 years.

A leafy suburban avenue on the north side of town. See Image for more on this leafiness and the problems it can cause.