A district councillor has criticised the "big mistake" of persisting with "out of date" plans to rebuild Kenilworth's outdoor pool.

Cllr Colin Quinney, who sits on Warwick District Council's planning committee, said in a public statement that current plans for two new indoor pools in Abbey Fields do not meet the council's ambitions to be net zero carbon.

He voted against the plans which were approved by WDC at the end of September alongside the new development at Castle Farm.

Cllr Quinney, who believes Kenilworth's swimming facilities should be updated, said the current designs do not take into account the "bigger issue" of climate change.

"The plans are out of date," he said.

"Neither of the new buildings will be anywhere near our ambition for zero carbon emission for most council activities by 2025. Why not? Because the plans were mostly developed before the urgency of reversing climate change was recognised by the council two years ago and a climate emergency declared.

"It's a big mistake to proceed as if nothing has happened. It sets a bad example."

Cllr Quinney's comments come ahead of a discussion panel hosted by the Kenilworth Lido Campaign Group this weekend at which councillors and experts will discuss the plans to demolish the outdoor pool.

The Leamington councillor also called on WDC to discuss the plans with residents and Kenilworth Town Council, stating that "there is time to pause, re-plan and get them right for these fast-changing times".

"Since the old buildings are all going, why not listen to the many local residents - and the town council - who are very concerned about future access, parking, congestion and pollution issues at the current sites?

"A new integrated facility sited elsewhere, closer to bus, walking and cycling routes and to more local users would encourage the switch to 'active transport', reduce car use, and improve the health of the whole community.

"And, a further bonus to residents, they would then enjoy a seamless transition to the new facility without any lengthy closures during the construction phase."

Cllr Quinney added that the importance of getting things right locally is even more critical right now given the discussions taking place at the COP26 conference in Glasgow.