Abingdon Town Council is stepping up its campaign to move the town museum from the old county hall to the Old Gaol leisure centre when it closes later this year.

The 17th century county hall in the middle of town has been home to the museum for more than 60 years, but the council believes it should move to more suitable premises.

Town councillor Julie Mayhew-Archer said that although the historic county hall seemed suited for a museum there were many practical drawbacks. "It is old and cold with inadequate lighting for exhibitions and access is poor, particularly for disabled people. The building does not do justice to an outstanding museum," she said.

"Archaeological finds have proved that people have been living here for over 2,600 years, longer than any other town in the country.

"Our Millennium exhibition on the history of Abingdon was so successful that it is now being shown at the county museum in Woodstock."

The council believes relocating the museum to the Old Gaol, which will cease to be a leisure centre when the new Phoenix sports centre opens, would allow bigger and better exhibitions.

The Town Forum, comprising representatives from councils and local organisations, wants to see the Old Gaol used as an arts venue after the Phoenix centre opens.