It looks like a theme park attraction - but this is planned for Abingdon.

A similar scheme in Sheffield

A new Water Splash feature to replace the outdoor swimming pool lists a collection of delights, including a Rooster Tail, Magic Touch Bollard, Rainbow, Ground Geyser, Rooster Tail, Fill 'n' Spill, Roll-a-Rail and Foam Shooter Water Cannon.

Water Splash has been criticised by the Save The Outdoor Pool (Stop) campaigners who are fighting to stop the Vale of White Horse District Council from closing the pool to save money.

The council is prepared to lease the pool out at a peppercorn rent if Stop manages to come up with a viable business plan by May.

Stop condemned the water feature as a cheap fix in place of the swimming pool.

But the council claims the new Water Splash will be a jewel in a new-look Abbey Meadow and will build on the success of the existing children's water play area.

Council leader Jerry Patterson said: "Now we are planning something more suitable for older children, young people and families.

"There are not many features like it in this country.

"We plan to consult the public about the features to be included."

Stop member Paul Gustafson was dismissive of the Water Splash idea. He said: " It's a Mickey Mouse gimmick.

"What an appalling feature this will be -- the council plans to replace a gem of a pool in a lovely setting with a creation out of a Disneyland dream. It will be a miserable compromise, a cheap fix that no-one wants. It will be no substitute for the pool."

But councillor and executive member with responsibility for leisure, Joyce Hutchinson, said: "An older children's Water Splash area will complement the improvements to Abbey Meadow the council has made over the last three years.

"We installed the young children's water play area and last year developed a new play area.

"We believe the Water Splash area will be an asset and add further to Abbey Meadow being a fun leisure area for families within the Vale district to relax and enjoy themselves."

Mrs Hutchinson said children and adults would be asked to comment on which of the equipment they would most like to see as part of the development.

She added: "This new attraction will be open next year.

"During this summer the existing children's water play area, tennis courts, golf, play area and snack kiosk will be open as usual."