An opening date has been set for a popular outdoor pool in Abingdon ahead of schedule.

The swimming pool and splash pad at Abbey Meadow will open ahead of the school summer holidays on July 22.

This is a few days earlier than originally advertised and the pool will be open everyday until the start of September.

READ MORE: Oxford Ice Rink CLOSED as warm weather melts ice

Councillor Debra Dewhurst, cabinet member for leisure centres and community buildings at Vale of White Horse District Council, said: “We’re now getting ready to open the pool and are looking forward to lots of happy visitors enjoying it during the summer holidays.

“The outdoor pool at Abbey Meadow is the perfect place to have fun and on a hot day makes you feel like you’re in a holiday resort.

“I can’t wait to take my children along this year.”   

Oxford Mail: Swimming crash courses are on offer this summer

The Greenwich Leisure Limited (GLL) team, which manages the site on behalf of Vale of White Horse District Council, is now working to get the pool and changing area ready, which takes a few weeks to do.

 

This includes a deep clean of the pool, an inspection before any water is added, filling the pool, getting the water to perfect temperature, and training staff. 

Alex Jewers, general manager for GLL at Abbey Meadow pool said: “The team is looking forward to welcoming back everyone to the pool for a summer of family fun and are working hard to ensure we are ready to open the pool on July 22.  

“The kiosk which is already open has had a great response to its new and improved furniture allowing visitors to enjoy one of our new and improved speciality coffees on the banks of the River Thames.”  

Vale of White Horse District Council, which owns the site, agreed in 2021 with its leisure contractor GLL that the pool would open for a for a six-week season over the summer, which is its busiest time of year.  

The district council continues to explore more climate friendly technology that could be installed to help save energy costs and help the environment.   

Councillor Dewhurst added: “The pool is popular during the school holidays, but it is costly to run and we have to balance this with the vital services we manage in the Vale.  

READ MORE: Man charged with knife possession crimes

“We continue to look into ways in which we can save energy and running costs, but for now, making sure the pool is open at its busiest time of the year is our priority.

“We’re so lucky to have this facility and I encourage anyone locally to come along this summer and enjoy it with family and friends.”  

Bookings for the pool will open for members and season ticket holders seven days before the pool opens and five days before for non-members.

It is advised that visitors book before they arrive via the Better UK app or website.