Public's views sought on Old Gaol's future

Consultants hired by the Vale of White Horse District Council have already published plans to convert the building, providing a cinema, studio theatre, library, museum, pub/restaurant, small shops and business spaces.

The council has not yet worked out how to pay for the scheme.

The 191-year-old building was a leisure centre until the new one opened in Audlett Drive in April.

Former Royal Shakespeare Company actor Michael Howells, of Ock Street, Abingdon, has suggested converting the main rotunda into a theatre that would look like the Swan in Stratford on the inside and the Globe in London from the outside.

The council's executive member for leisure, Tony de Vere, welcomed Mr Howells's suggestion, but said the scheme eventually chosen would have to be based on a sound business case, with a commercial input coming in to support it.

He added: "We have already received views from the public and we are receptive to all opinions.

Mr de Vere added: "The public will get the chance to examine the proposals at public meetings in the New Year."

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Mr Howells claims to have interested people in the theatre who might be prepared to back his plans financially.

Mr Howells, 37, said: "There is enormous potential if the Old Gaol is developed properly and sensitively. It is a precious jewell for Abingdon. It could secure long term economic prosperity for the town."

Mr Howell's idea is to A footbridge is proposed fom the Old Gaol to Nags Head Island to meet fire safety regulations.

He added: "It would be a very imposing structure and would look extraordinarily beautiful achieving instant recognition and putting Abingdon on the tourist map. It is the key ingredient, the one that will bring people and investors to the project."

Mr de Vere welcomed Mr Howell's proposals. He said: "Clearly he has gone to much trouble and we will look at his plans and take on board everyone's opinions.