Plans have been proposed for a brand new state-of-the-art £60m (US$85m) leisure complex to be built in Sandwell, UK, to host swimming and diving events at the 2022 Commonwealth Games.
An Olympic-sized competition pool, 25m diving pool and seating for 5,000 spectators has been outlined in plans submitted by Sandwell Council that would see the venue built at the Londonderry Playing Fields in Smethwick in the Midlands.
“The Commonwealth Games is going to be a fantastic, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the West Midlands. Here in Sandwell, we are very proud to be part of it and to be chosen to host the aquatics center, which will include diving and swimming events,” said Sandwell councillor Steve Eling.
“The eyes of the world will be on Sandwell and the benefits to the local economy will be huge with significant investment into the area and athletes and visitors from around the globe.”
The plan for the complex also includes two activity studios, a 12-court sports hall, 125-station gym, 25-station ladies-only gym, an indoor cycling studio, a sauna and steam rooms, as well as a cafe.
The next stage for Sandwell council is to put forward the plans to the Commonwealth Games Federation, which is to consider the proposal on January 31 and, if approved, will part fund the project along with the Black Country Local enterprise Partnership.
“We were already looking to improve swimming facilities in the south of the borough. With the Commonwealth Games coming to Birmingham, we will now be able to build an even better new leisure facility to serve the local community for decades to come,” added councilor Eling.
“I am delighted we can now announce our proposed site for the center. Londonderry Playing Fields is well-placed to meet the needs of local people and is in an area highlighted as having a high demand for a swimming facility. Our proposals will need planning permission and there will be full consultation with residents and businesses.”
January 31, 2018
