Birmingham is moving ahead with preparations for the Commonwealth Games 2022, which it won the host bid for in December 2017
Birmingham is moving ahead with preparations for the Commonwealth Games 2022, which it won the host bid for in December 2017.
With 95% of its venues already in place, the Midlands’ largest city is proposing a new aquatic venue in Smethwick, Sandwell.
Sandwell Council is putting forward a proposal to the Commonwealth Games Federation for a £60m venue to be built on the site of the Londonderry Playing Fields, a state-of-the-art aquatic centre that will feature a 50m-long pool, 25m diving pool and 5,000 spectator seats.
Run by Sandwell Leisure Trust, it will also include two activity studios, an indoor cycling studio, a 125-station gym, a 25-station women-only gym, a 12-court sports hall, a sauna/steam room and a café.
The site of the playing fields was chosen by Sandwell Council’s Committee for Leisure and Sport England, with the Council promising an alternative space for the playing fields will be provided.
The Council’s cabinet will consider the proposal at the end of January and, if the plans are approved, planning permission and a full consultation with local businesses and residents must be undertaken.
The cost is expected to be met by the Commonwealth Games Organising Committee, Sandwell Council and the Black Country Local Enterprise Partnership, along with various other organisations involved in the Games’ delivery.
Council leader Steve Eling said that he was proud of the part Sandwell would be able to play in the Games, as the event will bring significant investment and benefits to the local economy, with the site of the aquatic centre “well-placed to meet the needs of local people”.
