Oxford's biggest leisure attractions, including Hinksey Pool, are helping to destroy the ozone layer, according to a new report.

The city council, which has a policy of reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and energy usage, has been monitoring CO2 emissions at 16 of its largest facilities.

Emissions fell at most sites but increased at three -- Temple Cowley Pool, the Oxpens ice rink and Hinksey Pool off Abingdon Road.

The rise could be caused by the pools using more gas to heat the water, while electricity consumption has increased at the ice rink.

In a report to the environment scrutiny committee, section manager for the built environment John Bellinger told councillors gas consumption was particularly marked at Hinksey Pool. This was probably due to the weather -- summer temperatures were cooler in 2004, compared to 2003.

Councillors agreed the 16 biggest city council sites should be monitored quarterly. The list includes the town hall, the Covered Market, Ferry Sports Centre, Ramsay House and St Aldates Chambers.

Green city councillor Craig Simmons said sites where emissions have increased should be monitored constantly.

He added: "The public will not be pleased to hear these leisure facilities are actually contributing to pollution.

"We asked for a low-emission boiler to be installed at Hinksey Pool when it was being revamped but the Labour group went for a replacement gas boiler instead.

"The council needs to develop a Climate Change Action Plan on a citywide level, not just react to these surprise findings."

Labour city councillor Susanna Pressel, who chaired the scrutiny meeting, said the committee recommended the quarterly monitoring and investigating a range of energy efficiency measures for the 16 sites.

She added: "We are keen to introduce positive measures that would save taxpayers' money and reduce emissions that are contributing to global warming."

The scrutiny committee's recommendation will be considered by a forthcoming meeting of the executive board.

Oxford already has a reputation for poor air quality after three consecutive reports claimed nitrogen dioxide levels, caused by exhaust fumes, were among the highest in the country.