A campaign group has renewed calls pushing for a swimming lake to be brought back into use.

The Reinstate The Lake committee came into being when the lake at Promenade Park, Maldon, was permanently closed.

The group now claims to have more support and a viable plan to present to Maldon District Council.

Campaigner Lisa Cullumbine said: “With the spring and summer seasons approaching here is an update from the Reinstate The Lake Committee.

“We have not been hibernating over the winter.

“We have had many and various discussions with sympathetic local residents and businesses.

“These include our strategy for the summer, the support we can expect and, most crucially, our business plan for a viable and popular re-conversion of the Prom Lake for swimming, boating and other activities.

“Our petition to reinstate the lake now has well over 7,000 signatures – well over 10 per cent of the district – and we thank you all for your ongoing support.

“Our business plan for the reinstatement of the lake for swimming will not cost Maldon District Council or council tax payers a penny.

“Our business plan and budget show a significant profit over five years, that will go some considerable way to offset government cutbacks on local authority spending.”

Maldon District Council voted in November 2017 to refuse a 4,000-signature petition to reinstate the swimming lake in the park, which has been closed to the public since 2002, when 45-year-old Kevin Gay died after hitting his head on a submerged post when diving into the lake.

Council members also raised concerns about safety, hygiene, the cost and legal liability of the plans.

Despite the setback, campaigners were still determined to see the lakes reopened to the public and have been working to secure more support with the aim of resubmitting plans to the council in the future.

A council spokesman said: “The council is unaware of any proposal for the lake at this time.”