Local families look set to be able to use the children's play area in Abbey Fields this summer, while works on the town's new swimming pools continue to be delayed.

Youngsters have only been able to use the facilities over weekends for the past few months, as work to demolish the old leisure centre continued.

But with the discovery of the archaeological remains in the park halting progress on building the new swimming pools, councillors have said the play area should be open on weekdays during the summer holidays.

"With the long summer holidays coming up, access to play facilities is massively important for families," Cllr Andrew Milton said to Nub News.

"I'm really pleased that thanks to the efforts of a number of councillors, working with officers, we've managed to get this valuable facility open again.

"As the project progresses we'll be keeping the pressure on to provide as much access as possible."

Firm details of the arrangement are expected soon, and councillors have advised it is likely access will be restricted on occasion when work is happening on site.

A statement from Warwick District Council (WDC) today (June 14) said work on the new design for the leisure centre continues.

Portfolio holder for place, Cllr Chris King commented: "Throughout this project we've been mindful of the historic significance of Abbey Fields and the need to carefully balance the future needs of our local community, whilst ensuring that the integrity of the scheduled monument is retained.

"Our position on this hasn't changed and in the coming weeks we will work with our contractual partners and Historic England to reach the best possible outcome."

Neil Rimmington, inspector of ancient monuments, Historic England, added:"The quality and extent of these archaeological remains is remarkable and provide an amazing insight into the history and everyday life of this monastic site.

"We are working closely with Warwick District Council and their project team on their assessment and ongoing work."

An update report will be brought to councillors as soon as the "best solution and new timescales" for the construction work have been agreed.