Open day for Moseley Road Baths.
The Friends of Moseley Road Baths are hosting a Keep Moseley Road Baths Open Day on 8th March, 10am-2pm, to mark the 108th anniversary of the building opening its doors to swimmers. The Friends hope to demonstrate just how wonderful and relevant the building is, in spite of Birmingham City Council’s plans to close the facility in 2016.
Whilst the building itself opened on 30th October 1907 for the individual ‘slipper’ baths and laundry facilities, swimming pools at the time were only used in warmer months, so it wasn’t until spring 1908 that swimmers were able to take the plunge. During winters, pools were usually emptied and boarded over for social activities, including dances, billiards and card games. Moseley Road Baths was also used as a casualty station during World War II.
On the day there will be an opportunity to take a tour of areas of the building which are normally closed to the public – previous tours have been really well received and visitors are encouraged to take lots of photos. With the building due to close its doors for the last time next year, this may be one of the last opportunities for the public to see areas such as the Gala Pool, laundry room, private washing baths departments, boiler house and original water tank.
Swimmers of all ages can head into the water for a free fun swim with floats and toys in the pool. Those who have never swum at Moseley Road Baths before are particularly encouraged to come along and enjoy a dip in this historic Edwardian pool. The free sessions are 9am-10am and 10.15am-11.15am.
Members of the Friends of Moseley Road Baths will have a stall where the Friends’ recent book Pool of Memories will be available to buy, and visitors can learn more about the campaign to keep swimming at the Baths plus how the planned closure will adversely affect the community and neighbourhood.
For a virtual tour of Moseley Road Baths visit www.moseleyroadbaths.co.uk For updates on the campaign and to learn more about the group see www.friendsofmrb.co.uk