CAMPAIGNER Peter Harbour splashed out on a children’s paddling pool to make a point about saving Abingdon’s outdoor swimming pool.

Vale of White Horse District Council’s latest proposals for Abbey Meadows include options for closing the open-air pool – which was saved from being shut down in 2006.

Mr Harbour and fellow members of Friends of Abbey Meadows Outdoor Pool set up the padding pool in the Abbey shopping centre on Monday to remind residents the outdoor pool was once more under threat.

The Vale is consulting on plans for the meadows and while one would refurbish the outdoor pool, changing rooms and toilets,alternatives would see it close.

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The alternative options are for a riverside cafe, or using the meadow as a “flexible green space” for various activities.

Retired physicist Mr Harbour, 75, from Abingdon, said: “I’m surprised the council hasn’t learnt its lesson from 2006.

“I paid £5 for the paddling pool to make the point that this is what people would be left with if the outdoor pool closes.

“I think the strength of feeling now in favour of keeping the pool is even greater than it was in 2006.”

Council leader Matthew Barber said: “We have put aside £500,000 for Abbey Meadows and want to make sure keeping the pool is the preferred option for residents.”

The consultation on the proposals for Abbey Meadows finishes on Tuesday, April 7.