Work on Abingdon’s outdoor pool has started, and weather permitting, the pool will re-open for the 2018 summer season.

The paddling pool and main pool will be combined, and easy access to the pool provided by creating a ‘beach’ area.

The changing areas will also have a major revamp, and accessibility improved. A rubber surface will be laid around the pool to protect feet. Lights and heating will use energy-efficient equipment to reduce maintenance and operating costs.

Thanks to the VWHDC (Vale of White Horse District Council) for saving the pool for the next generation and beyond. Also thanks to the Friends of the outdoor pool for their campaign to keep the pool.

The chance to buy shares in Abingdon Hydro will be opened to us on Saturday 1st November.

The shares will pay for the £1 million scheme to harness power from The River Thames, a scheme that has been in planning and consultation for 4 years, by people from the local communty wanting to generate green energy for Abingdon from an untapped source.

Some of the water currently flowing over Abingdon weir will go instead through two Archimedes screws, generating between them at full power almost 100kW of electrical power, and on average 55kW (55,000 Watts). That is 1,000 55W light bulbs.

Find out more from Abingdon Hydro.