PUBLIC buildings and swimming pools could be sold off in a council cost-cutting drive.

Vale of White Horse District Council is reviewing all the authority’s £33.5m worth of buildings and said those “not performing well” will be sold.

They said the move was essential as public finances were squeezed – but an opposition councillor warned of buildings being “picked off one by one”.

The Liberal Democrat-controlled council said it was too early to say what its plans for any buildings were.

Matt Prosser, the council’s strategic director, said “Public finances are under huge pressure and we need to ensure that we are getting the maximum return.

“If some assets are not performing well then they could be disposed of and the money reinvested in other property stock.

“We need to take a close look at this at a time when government grants are being cut back.

“We need to look in detail at what properties are worth and significant changes to lease options.

“The review will start in January and will not be concluded until the middle of next year.”

But Matthew Barber, leader of the Conservative group on the council, said: “I want the council to take a strategic approach on this, because I think there’s a danger that community buildings could be picked off one by one.”

He pointed to the recent sale of Fitzharrys Common Room, off Wootton Road, in Abingdon.

The hall, used by community groups and private parties, is being sold and is expected to be converted into housing.

Mr Barber said: “The common room was not closed because it was derelict, it was simply underused.”

Abingdon Town Council is talking to the Vale about taking over running of the Guildhall.

The council said a decline in use, increased running costs and the availability of alternative venues led to the Fitzharrys closure. The council closed the building, which it had owned for 25 years, on October 1.

Among the buildings in the council’s property portfolio are:

  • White Horse Leisure and Tennis Centre, Abingdon
  • Abbey Meadow Pool, Abingdon
  • Abbey House, Abingdon
  • Abingdon Guildhall
  • Wantage Leisure Centre
  • Wantage Civic Hall
  • Faringdon Swimming Pool