PLANS to redevelop the Spa's Lido pool suffered another blow after developers pulled out of the multi-million pound project.

Thermae Ltd planned to develop the disused site with indoor and outdoor relaxation pools, treatment rooms, a sauna and restaurant.

The firm has been in negotiations with Wychavon District Council since January. But Thermae last week announced it has pulled out.

Thermae Ltd claims that a similar spa centre in Bath has put a strain on its finances.

This is not the first time the spa project has taken a knock-back. German investors Calypso pulled out last year causing further delays to the project.

Councillor Roy Seabourne (Lab-West) is angry that Thermae has failed to commit after nine months of exclusive negotiations with leisure chiefs at Wychavon District Council.

He wanted Wychavon Leisure, a consortium of local business leaders, to be given the chance to develop their ideas alongside Thermae.

"The pool has now been out of use for four years, including the whole of the current run of fine weather," he said.

"We believe that the people of Droitwich deserve better of their council and intend to immediately press for the leisure company bid to be reinstated and for a full inquiry to be held into events which have led to this shambles."

Cllr Martin Jennings , leader of Wychavon District Council, said:

"This is disappointing news but I am pleased to note that a meeting has already been arranged with Wychavon Leisure later this week to

discuss its proposals.

"We must also be grateful that they informed us of this decision now and did not wait until the end of the exclusivity in December," Cllr Jennings noted.

Cllr Pam Davey hopes Wychavon Leisure reopen the pool by next year.