Deal over Sandwell swimming site agreed as Birmingham Commonwealth Games moves closer
Sandwell looks set to take another major step towards hosting part of the Commonwealth Games today - as bosses agreed a deal in principle for a site to build a state-of-the-art aquatics centre to host some of the world's best swimmers.
Bids for the 2022 Games need to be submitted by tomorrow and leisure chiefs in Sandwell said they were not aware of any rival entries, appearing to leave Birmingham's as the only bid on the table.
Council bosses revealed work would start on Sandwell's swimming centre, to be used as part of the Games if the bid is successful, in the next 12 months. Its exact location has not yet been revealed as discussions continue over the site.
Canada, Malaysia and Australia had all been rumoured to be considering bidding for the competition but are thought to have decided against it.
Even if Australia does come forward with an eleventh-hour entry, it is hosting the 2018 Games and it is considered unlikely it would be awarded consecutive competitions.
Birmingham was chosen as the UK's candidate for the Games this month, beating off competition from rivals Liverpool and becoming firm favourite to host the event.
Sandwell Council chiefs met on Wednesday where it was confirmed a deal had been agreed in principle over a site, believed to be in the Smethwick area.
The authority has committed almost £30 million towards supporting Birmingham's bid, including funding from outside sources.
The state-of-the art centre would feature 1,000 poolside seats for spectators, while another 4,000 would be drafted in especially for the games.
Its legacy would see it become one of the best swimming centres in the West Midlands in an area which is in desperate need for improved facilities.
Councillor Richard Marshall, leisure boss at Sandwell Council, said: "We have come a hell of a long way.
"We have agreed in principle and are still in discussions whether to purchase or lease.
"The first shovel will be in the ground in the next 12 months as it will have to be up and running by the summer of 2021."
Councillor Marshall said the swimming centre would have a lasting impact long after 2022.
He said: "We had a report done which said the swimming facilities in the south of the borough weren't good enough.
"Smethwick Baths are closed for seven weeks for essential works. We can't keep losing facilities and this is the whole point."
