A significant breakthrough has been made in the restoration of Birmingham’s iconic Moseley Road Baths as a wall was recently demolished, creating a new passageway linking the Edwardian swimming baths to the neighbouring library. This milestone is part of a long-awaited rejuvenation project aimed at preserving two of Balsall Heath’s cherished heritage buildings.
The Moseley Road Baths, constructed in 1907, have undergone years of focused campaigning to prevent their decline. Earlier this year, the site’s future was secured with a £9.2 million grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, earmarked for restoring the baths to public use.
Recent visits to the site have offered a glimpse into the extensive work funded by this grant, showcasing the progress towards reopening the facilities for Birmingham residents to enjoy once again. Among the most notable developments is the creation of a brand new passageway that connects the baths with the adjacent library, enhancing public access and enabling visitors to explore both historical spaces seamlessly.
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Both buildings had fallen into disrepair over the years, but restoration efforts are underway to return them to their former splendour. The new corridor reveals the splendid architecture of the historic library through the glazed brick walls of the baths, encouraging community engagement across the two venues. The rejuvenated complex will host wellness activities, a state-of-the-art gym, community events, cinematic experiences, along with traditional services like book lending and swimming.
The restoration project aims for completion by 2028, with intensive construction activities taking place. Tasks include meticulous work on stained glass panels, preservation of ornamental reliefs around the library, securing roofs, and addressing pest control to rid the premises of pigeons inhabiting upper levels. Meanwhile, some community facilities remain accessible to locals during the restoration process.
Contractor Galliford Try is utilising the old gala baths as a workshop for restoration purposes, focusing on employing local specialist tradespeople to honour the historic fabric of the buildings. Project manager Richard Brice emphasised that the approach is not about achieving flawlessness but respecting the original materials and unique character. For instance, minor marks left by past community installations will be retained to maintain authenticity while other areas will be sensitively repaired.
Last week, during Birmingham Heritage Week, the public was granted their first look inside the baths and library. Tours were conducted by volunteers and construction staff, allowing attendees to witness firsthand the ongoing transformation. Notably, Lucy Reid, Chair of Moseley Road Bath’s CIO, was on site to welcome visitors, including renowned designer Kevin McCloud from the television series Grand Designs. McCloud visited Balsall Heath as part of the upcoming Grand Designs Live event in Birmingham scheduled for early October.
Reflecting on the restoration journey, Lucy Reid shared: “Every time I come in it’s so exciting to see the change in the building and just how much is going on. I can’t quite believe it’s really happening. So many people have contributed so much to reach this point, which makes it truly special. This is no longer just a dream; the renovation is very much underway.”
However, the tours were marked by the absence of trustee Joe Holyoak, the respected architect, designer, and conservationist who had devoted himself tirelessly to saving Moseley Road Baths and other heritage sites in Birmingham. Sadly, he passed away shortly before the public reveal. He had been scheduled to guide visitors and share insights into the building’s significance.
Lucy paid tribute, saying: “Joe was a Birmingham legend and was meant to lead one of these tours. Now, with every walkthrough, we are honouring his memory, which is incredibly meaningful to us all.”
Stephen Hartland, Chairman of the Birmingham and West Midlands Group of The Victorian Society, expressed heartfelt condolences and praised Joe’s vast knowledge and dedication. He described Joe as an architect, urban designer, conservationist, teacher, writer, and campaigner whose expertise embodied a deep understanding and appreciation of Birmingham’s architectural history and community spirit.
Mr Hartland underscored Joe’s commitment to Balsall Heath, including his work on the Neighbourhood Plan and Moseley Road Baths, highlighting his belief that quality architecture and planning ultimately serve communities. He concluded that Joe’s legacy lies not only in his extensive knowledge but in the wisdom gained through decades of practical involvement in shaping and preserving Birmingham’s urban landscape.
The restoration of Moseley Road Baths, a project championed by Joe Holyoak and the Friends of Moseley Road Baths, is anticipated to open its doors to the community in 2028, offering a revitalised space for leisure, culture, and connection.