PROPOSALS to sell a playground in Malmesbury to pay for new play facilities and a skate park have received a lukewarm reception from district councillors who say the plan needs more thought.

Coun John Thomson has suggested that the playground next to the outdoor swimming pool in Newton Grove should be sold.

Once the indoor pool next to the Activity Zone is completed, he also wants some of the money from the sale of the outdoor pool to be used.

Coun Thomson said the money raised could pay for new playgrounds at Reeds Farm and at the recreation ground off White Lion Park.

Coun Thomson said it could also finance the refurbishment of the St Aldhelm Mead recreation park, and provide the town with a skate park.

At a meeting of North Wiltshire District Council's executive committee on Thursday, Coun Thomson said the land could fetch up to £1.5 million, and the work would cost just £220,000.

Coun Lesley Bennett, however, said she would fight to fight to save Newton Grove playground.

Coun Doreen Darby said she appreciated the need for more play equipment in Malmesbury but did not think councillors could contemplate using money from the sale of the outdoor pool until the indoor one is built in 18 months' time.

Councillors agreed to defer the motion to a future date when more information is known.