BIRMINGHAM AIMS FOR 2012 OLYMPIC POOL

11-12-2008

Birmingham Council has officially confirmed the site of its proposed 50metre pool – and says it intends to open the facility in time to host visiting teams preparing for the 2012 Olympics. There are still no details about how it will be funded, though.

A new Swimming Pool Provision Strategy being considered by the city’s Cabinet next week will also include plans replacing Harborne Baths - in the ward of Council leader Mike Whitby – and upgrading Stechford Cascades.

It says that a new complex will be built between Nelson Primary School and the railway line to the rear of the NIA (off St Vincent Street) incorporating a 50m, 10-lane pool with a movable floor and boom, an international diving tank, a “major leisure water facility” as well a gym equipment, a cliambing wall and a dance studio.

Sport England can be expected to stump up some of the cost – but it’s unclear how the rest of the bill will be met.

In a press release Whitby said: “Birmingham is recognised as a world class city for sport, and it is imperative that we continue to evolve and offer modern, high-quality facilities of a world class and Olympic standard.

"At the heart of this new Sports strategy is a new 50m pool complex to be located in the city centre, offering flexible water space for all, but also with a specification and capacity to host some of the biggest international events.

"It is not simply a resource to attract Olympic teams prior to 2012 but will also provide the citizens of Birmingham the facilities they deserve."

Funnily enough, Whitby doesn’t mention the two Birmingham pools currently closed because of poor maintenance – Sparkhill and Wyndley – nor the historic Moseley Road Baths which faces an uncertain future.

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