Tag: <span>Baths</span>

This is the first of what are going to be regular updates on the progress being made with the transformation of the baths and the library (MRB and BHL for short) by Joe Holyoak. Thanks Joe!

What is happening?

An enormous investment is being put into these two landmark buildings on Moseley Road in Balsall Heath. Although the two buildings will remain in the ownership of the City Council, the transformation is the work of what we call the Coalition. This consists of six bodies: the City Council, the MRB Charitable Incorporated Organisation (MRBCIO), the National Trust, Historic England, World Monuments
Fund, and the Friends of MRB.

Phase 1 ongoing

Together they have raised £36.5 million. This will be spent on two phases of work: we are currently in Phase 1, with the contractors Galliford Try. For the first time, the two buildings have been connected. At the end of Phase 1 work on the library will be completed, and it will reopen in 2027, enlarged with the addition of a new mezzanine floor. The majority of the funding for Phase 1 came from the government’s Levelling-Up Fund, now called the Local Regeneration Fund.

Work is also proceeding in Phase 1 on parts of the baths, particularly the conversion of the washing baths at the front of the building. The major work will be in Phase 2, with the reopening of the Gala Pool for swimming. Pool 2, previously used for swimming, will be boarded over and become a venue for music, film, weddings, and so on. Announced in May was a £9.2 million grant from the National Heritage Lottery Fund, which completes the funding for Phase 2.

Astonishing achievement from brink of closure

Only ten years ago, Moseley Road Baths was threatened with closure. To be now proceeding towards completion of a £36.5 million transformation, including Balsall Heath Library, is an astonishing achievement. It is going to offer everyone in Balsall Heath a great range of facilities to enjoy. More information can be found on the website moseleyroadbaths.org.uk.

Future updates in The Heathan Will give more detailed news on the progress of the building contract, thanks Joe!

Visit the Baths at Balsall Heath Community Festival

To be confirmed dates and times, Moseley Road Baths and Library are offering a tour (Joe is one of the volunteer guides) as part of our Community Festival 3rd-13th July #BHCFest26.