EXCLUSIVE: Commonwealth Games heading to Sandwell? Move key to Olympic pool bid

The borough could host all swimming and diving events in what would be a major coup and see some of the biggest sports stars in the world pitch up.

Sandwell Council bosses have been approached by chiefs in Birmingham to back the bid which, if successful, would result in a new leisure centre for the borough with an Olympic-sized swimming pool, fit for the Games.

Excited council chiefs today hailed Sandwell's role in the bid, declaring the Games would propel the borough 'onto the world map'.

It could mean British swimming stars such as Adam Peaty going head to head with the cream of Australia and South Africa in Sandwell in front of thousands of fans from across the globe.

Birmingham and Liverpool are the two most likely destinations for the Commonwealth Games in five years' time with both cities having lodged official bids to become hosts.

Officials behind Birmingham's bid are confident they have the edge, with four of the city's major arenas having been identified to be used.

And Sandwell's place on the city's border has seen it eyed up as a perfect destination to support the Games.

Council bosses would also use the event as an opportunity to bring in major investment and the creation of a much-needed new leisure centre.

Chiefs have been desperate to build a new leisure centre to replace its crumbling buildings in the south of the borough.

Councillor Richard Marshall, cabinet member for leisure at Sandwell Council said: "Birmingham has approached us about the Commonwealth Games and we said yes, we would be in support of that, offering the aqua events.

"We have been talking about it for some weeks, I have been struggling to contain myself. It would put Sandwell on the world map.

"We have been talking with Sport England for some time, they have identified us as an area in need of a new facility.

"Some money would also come from the Commonwealth Games."

John Spellar, Labour MP for Warley, said: "Any successful Commonwealth Games showcases to the world and can enhance things for the area as well.

"It is very important and the West Midlands is beginning to compete with Manchester, but equally we have got to make sure we keep the costs within reasonable bounds."

He added: "Sandwell has been looking for a while at replacing some of its older facilities.

"We need to look at the legacy and ensuring we have top-class facilities for recreational sport and to encourage people into competitive sport as well."

Birmingham entered the running for the 2022 Games after Durban in South Africa pulled out as it could not afford it.