Workers move in for end of baths

Condemned Coseley baths entered its final chapter today as contractors appointed to demolish the building moved onto the site.

Residents living near the pool in Pear Tree Lane reported workers from Birmingham-based Coleman & Company were erecting fencing around the building in preparation for bulldozers to move in. The firm confirmed it had been awarded the contract for the work.

The axe has been hanging over the baths since August last year when it closed. Dudley Council claims the roof is unsafe and it would cost millions of pounds to bring the building up to scratch.

Dudley Council confirmed residents' worst fears. They said it would take three months to clear the site with doors and windows stripped out and asbestos removed before demolition, expected to start in two weeks.

Cabinet member for culture and leisure Councillor David Stanley said: "Taking the decision to close and demolish a facility such as Coseley is never an easy one to reach. Unfortunately, keeping the building open is no longer viable."