Monumental Pool

This Saturday sees a special open day at Moseley Road Baths to mark its inclusion on the World Monuments Fund Watch List of buildings under threat, http://www.theguardian.com/culture/2015/oct/15/birmingham-baths-yorkshire-mansion-worlds-most-at-risk-list.  The New York based organisation publish their biannual Watch List in order to focus attention on sites of architectural significance around the world that are under threat.

Moseley Road Baths' inclusion on the list has raised attention to the baths which are the oldest of only two Grade II* listed indoor swimming pools currently operating in Britain and raises hope that support can be found to preserve them.

The shame of inclusion is often softened by lavish restoration grants backed by the charity’s partner, American Express. 

http://www.theguardian.com/culture/2015/oct/15/birmingham-baths-yorkshire-mansion-worlds-most-at-risk-list

The baths opened on 30 October 1907 and contains several rare and unique features including the only complete set of pre-war private washing (slipper) bath cubicles in Britain, original poolside arched glazed brick dressing boxes and a three-sided spectator gallery.  The first floor laundry room contains the only surviving steam-heated drying racks above which sits the 45,000 gallon capacity cast iron cold water storage tank.

The Open Day, from 10am - 4pm, also celebrates the building's 108th birthday and to celebrate there will be a re-enactment of the opening ceremony at 2pm following which Edwardian-period musical entertainment will be provided in the tea room.

There will be guided tours through the day and a chance to swim in the current working pool.

For more information visit the Friends of Moseley Road Baths website: http://www.friendsofmrb.co.uk/2015/10/open-day-at-world-monuments-fund-listed-moseley-road-baths/