SUN seekers splashing out on summer days will make the difference between a new outdoor swimming pool leaking cash or staying full to the brim, according to a report.

The Lido in Droitwich stands a good chance of breaking even in three years out of five, but it all depends on the weather, Wychavon district councillors will be told tomorrow.

A revenue estimate has been drawn up which shows the Lido can recover its £140,000 a year operating costs and run without a loss - as long as people turn up.

It needs an average of 30,000 visits in each 20-week season from May to September, the report says.

"It's a weather-dependent facility and because of that, it's risky," said Wychavon development manager Tim Deakin. "If the sun shines, people will use it. We may have a small number of hardcore swimmers who will turn up in the cold but mostly it will be for sunny days."

The report says the Lido would have a staff of seven, including managers and life guards. Opening hours would be 10am to 7.30pm each day, extended to 8.30pm in August, with admission prices about £4 to £5 for adults and £1.70 to £3 for children.

A recent consultation exercise showed 70 per cent of people who responded supported the plans, which include a heated saltwater pool with a shallow beach, a children's wet play area, reception and a caf.

Mr Deakin said weather records showed three summers out of five were warm but that still would not mean an operating profit. In the other two years, the council may have to provide extra funding.

"We believe this is a realistic estimate and shows it would be well worth the risk," Mr Deakin said.

Councillors are expected to make a final decision in January and the new Lido may be ready in time to open by mid-summer next year.