There’s still time for residents to have their say on the design of Sandwell’s state-of-the-art Aquatics Centre.

A public survey and drop-in sessions are seeking the views of local people who can help shape the £60 million building in Smethwick.

Alongside the swimming facilities, the centre will boast a dry-dive facility, 108-station gym, a 25-station lady-only gym, three activity studios, an eight-court sports hall, indoor cycling studio, sauna/steam room and café. The centre will also host the swimming and diving competitions for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games. 

Plans include a 50m Olympic-sized competition swimming pool, a 25m diving pool, a studio pool and 1,000 spectator seats - plus temporary seats that will be added for the Games.

The site, at Londonderry Playing Fields, will also include 450 on-site car parking spaces, a football pitch and changing facilities, an improved urban park and children’s play area. Leader of Sandwell Council Councillor Steve Eling, urged residents to take the time to put forward their views on the new design and facility mix. He said:

“Last month we revealed the proposed designs for the new world-class aquatics centre in Smethwick. 

“Residents can now have their say on the building’s design and mix of facilities, either by filling in the online survey or going along to one of our drop-in sessions in Smethwick.

“The new centre will also provide Sandwell with the exciting opportunity to host international events as part of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.

Councillor Bill Gavan, cabinet member for leisure and Commonwealth Games added:

“The pre-planning consultation gives residents the opportunity to give feedback on the design and facility mix which will support the formal planning application. 

The centre will give us a great legacy for Sandwell beyond the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games and we want people to be involved in its design.” 

The council has organised consultation sessions for residents to come along and discuss proposals ahead of a planning application being put forward.

The drop-in sessions will be held on: 

•          Tuesday 8th January – 5pm-8pm at St Mark’s Church, Thimblemill Road
•          Thursday 10th January – 9am-5pm at St Mark’s Church, Thimblemill Road
•          Tuesday 15th January – 4-6pm at Dorothy Parkes Centre, Church Road

Residents can also have their say by completing an online survey at sandwell.gov.uk/aquaticscentre. The pre-planning consultation closes on Sunday 20th January.