Fears that someone could drown or be seriously injured have prompted plans for improvements to Abingdon Marina.

The Vale of White Horse District Council is discussing improvements to the slipway with constructors Builders Ede. The move follows a report commissioned by the council which made 12 recommendations for safety improvements.

The Oxford Mail reported in May this year that Abingdon town councillor and boat owner Peter Fulk was frustrated no action had been taken after he raised the issue in late 2003. Speaking this week, Mr Fulk said: "The worst case scenario that could arise would be a drowning due to lack of facilities.

"We are pleased that we are making progress with the district council and look forward to a satisfactory conclusion."

Town council technical officer Steve Rich said: "The slipway was constructed in a way that makes it dangerous to launch boats. There are no safety railings for people to grab onto if they get into difficulties.

"Once a boat is launched from the slipway, there are no facilities for them to be able to get onto their craft.

"There is no jetty or anything, it is just a bank, and people could easily slip between the boat and the bank."

Mr Fulk said: "This independent report vindicates what I have been saying for a long time. This public slipway is not safe. The time has come for both sides to sort out these shortcomings before the start of the new boating season."

Builders Ede sales director Ernie Rumsey said vandals had stolen and damaged lifebuoys. He added: "There are financial implications that we and the council have to talk through and resolve. We have responsibilities and so does the council. "I do not agree with all the recommendations because there is no other slipway along the Thames that meets these specifications.

"We have had a very constructive meeting and I am confident we can move forward and resolve these issues in time for the new boating season in the spring."