Sports and social groups in Wallingford may lose out if the community hall they use is turned into a 'water discovery centre'.

The Regal Centre is used for community activities, including badminton, roller-skating, line-dancing, bowls, table-tennis, Women's Institute markets, the Blues and Beer Festival and blood donations.

However, these activities were under threat after Wallingford Town Council's Regal Centre Sub-committee broadly welcomed a proposal from Crowmarsh-based Water Environment Trust (WET) to extend and refurbish the Regal as a fee-charging science attraction.

Built as a cinema in the 1930s, the Regal was bought for the community by the council in 1975. The building is now said to be a drain on council reserves, losing £15,000 a year.

The proposal is for a two-storey extension into the adjoining car park, taking nine spaces, and an enhancement of the arcade off St Martin's Street. Interior features would include hi-tech water and environmental installations.

Cllr Dee Cripps said a water science centre would boost tourism, while deputy mayor Betty Atkins said she was keen, but with reservations over parking and the planned on-site cafe