DETERMINED Droitwich Spa residents turned out in force to give their views on the town's lido development, with nearly 400 people having their say during the consultation period.

Copies of the proposals for Wychavon District Council's 21st century lido were put on display at Droitwich Spa Library, the town's Community Contact Centre and Droitwich Spa High School.

During the consultation period, which ended on Monday, people sent in questionnaires and gave their views using the internet.

Seventy per cent of the 400 people that had their say supported the new plans with 19 per cent against the concept, which includes a heated saltwater pool with a graduating depth from zero to 1.4m.

Others that took part in the consultation felt they were unsure about the proposal. Of the people that filled in the questionnaires, 63 per cent said they wanted to see saltwater in the new lido and 41 per cent said they would use the facility at least once a week.

Other suggestions that were made during the consultation period include sun beds at the site, parasol hire, a diving board and water slide, a sauna and beauty facility.

Leader of Wychavon District Council, Martin Jennings, said: "First signs show that we are on the right track and I am delighted so many people came out to have their say."

Wychavon's executive board was set to hear a summary of residents' views on the proposals last night.

However, despite the good response, the two groups championing the lido cause believe people should have been given more time to contribute.

Ian Wild, from The Friends of Droitwich Spa Lido and its Park, said: "This was a surprising turn out considering the consultation period was somewhat impromptu, short and spanned the half-term holiday.

"The parish poll result, where almost ten times the number turned out to vote in favour of restoration and refurbishment, needs to be included in the analysis.

"Our members strongly wish to see remaining original structures protected, but many were unable to have their say because of the timing of this exercise.

"The best way forward now is for any development to go through the normal planning process.

"This should not signal the end of the open dialogue between the council and the town."

Linda Watkins, chairman of Save a Lido Today (SALT), added: "SALT is happy to see the public response although disappointed they were given barely two weeks for their comments.

"We are pleased 63 per cent were in favour of salt water as SALT has always believed that the brine is an asset to Droitwich Spa."