FEARS have been raised over parking problems and traffic congestion if the go-ahead is given to a new pools complex.

Oxford City Council has lodged a planning application for the new swimming pool in Blackbird Leys that would be built next to the existing leisure centre in Pegasus Road.

It would also spell the end of Temple Cowley Pools, in Temple Road, which would be sold off to fund the project. And while a new pool would be welcomed by some on the estate, others raised fears about parking and congestion.

The council has said Temple Cowley Pools costs too much to run and the new complex would provide state-of-the-art swimming facilities.

But Blackbird Leys Parish Council chairman Gordon Roper said some residents feared swimmers would park in side streets.

“We welcome the new pool but we share concerns over the increased traffic and parking problems,” he said.

The plan includes 128 car parking spaces, nine more than the current centre.

Planning officers state the current car park is under used and the proposed car park would be big enough to cope.

Campaigners fighting to keep Temple Cowley Pools open said a Blackbird Leys facility would leave thousands of swimmers high and dry as they would not be able to get to it.

Other objections include loss of green space and loss of light to houses in Pegasus Road.

The planning application will be debated by the council south-east area committee on Monday, and a final decision made by the strategic development control committee on April 28 Officers recommended app-roving the new complex, which would include a 25m-competition, learner and fun pools.

It would provide seating for spectators to allow galas to be staged and would be linked to the existing leisure centre.

Building the pools is estimated to cost £8.5m, although over a 25-year-period, including running costs, it would work out at £16m. If the project goes ahead, the council hopes the building would be complete by autumn next year.