A powerful message of perseverance has emerged from Birmingham’s successful campaign to save Moseley Road Baths, the city’s oldest swimming baths. After years of dedicated effort, the future of this cherished heritage site has been secured with a substantial grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Located in Balsall Heath, the Moseley Road Baths had long been at risk, but the recent £16.2 million funding package – supported by Birmingham City Council, West Midlands Combined Authority, the Architectural Heritage Fund, Garfield Weston Foundation, the Edward Cadbury Trust, and the Saintbury Trust – ensures its restoration and accessibility for generations to come.
The restoration will revive the stunning Edwardian gala pool, reopen wellbeing sessions, and introduce a brand-new community gym. Importantly, the baths will offer inclusive swimming options for disabled residents, plus specialized programs such as dementia-friendly sessions and para swimming, making it a hub for everyone in the community.
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Volunteer passion and persistence, led by Lucy Reid, chair of the Moseley Road Baths CIO who campaigned for 11 years, played a vital role in this achievement. Lucy’s message to fellow heritage campaigners is clear: “Keep at it. Do not stop.” She emphasizes the importance of vision, advocacy, and collaboration with the right partners to turn ambitions into reality.
The significance of Moseley Road Baths goes beyond just preservation. The building is listed on the prestigious World Monuments Watch, putting it alongside global icons like Machu Picchu and Angkor Wat, highlighting its architectural and cultural importance.
Preserving such historic spaces is not just about safeguarding buildings but about maintaining vibrant community hubs where people learn, connect, and thrive. Birmingham houses numerous at-risk historic sites and neighborhoods, including Digbeth and landmarks such as the Methodist Central Hall, the Crown pub, and the Electric Cinema, with varying campaigns ongoing to protect them.
With Moseley Road Baths expected to reopen by the end of 2028, the next crucial step will be appointing a management team capable of ensuring this treasured space remains well cared for as a vital part of Birmingham’s heritage and community life.
Lucy Reid concludes, “Birmingham deserves this. It’s worth fighting for.”