EXCITING plans for a new learner pool and an extended gym have been announced for Droitwich - but only if the town's Lido is demolished.

Wychavon District Council has said it will drastically extend Droitwich Leisure Centre if campaign group Save A Lido Today (SALT) cannot come up with a viable option for the outdoor pool in the next six months.

The proposed project, which will cost hundreds of thousands of pounds if it goes ahead, has been welcomed by councillors who oppose the re-opening of the Lido.

"We decided it was time to bite the bullet and take action to benefit the residents of Droitwich Spa," said Wychavon leader Martin Jennings.

"Restoring and running the Lido ourselves is not a viable option and it can only be used a few weeks a year anyway, which is why we originally sought outside funding to see if there was a market for a year-round brine spa facility.

"Our leisure centres are extremely well used and by improving them and extending the already popular services, we are benefiting a lot more residents.

"However, we know SALT is keen to restore the Lido to its former glory and we welcome a viable business plan on how to do this from them.

"Either way, the people of Droitwich Spa will see change for the better in the town."

Plans for an outdoor water feature in the park have also been revealed - regardless of whether the Lido is re-opened.

This is expected to consist of a soft-surface area with spray jets, which will spurt out water intermittently.

Droitwich town and Wychavon district councillor Terry Spencer said the new plans would be good for residents.

"Before the SALT project came into being, the possibility of a new learner pool and an extended gym was one of the ideas bandied around," he said.

"I personally think it would be a very good option, as the leisure centre is already overrun. Also I think it would serve a wider part of the community."

SALT and Droitwich Town Council are due to meet tonight to discuss the future of the Lido.

The meeting starts at 7pm and is to be held in the council chamber in St Richard's House, Victoria Square, Droitwich.