Once a bustling hub for Black Country families, the former Dudley Leisure Centre on Wellington Road now stands as a stark reminder of a bygone era. Opened in the 1970s, this community landmark served generations with its popular swimming pools and sports pitches, drawing crowds for decades of recreation and fitness.
A Closure and a New Beginning
In January 2022, the centre sadly closed its doors to make way for the new £18 million Duncan Edwards leisure centre located on New Mill Street, approximately a mile away. This state-of-the-art facility was designed to replace the ageing infrastructure, offering modern amenities for local residents.
The Sale and Development Plans
Following the closure, Dudley Council sold the 5.7-acre site to Halesowen-based developer Revelan for £1.7 million in February 2025. This transaction came after a previous deal collapsed in 2024, highlighting the challenges in repurposing the large space. The council has indicated that any future housing development on the site would be subject to obtaining the necessary planning permissions.
Current State of Abandonment
Despite the sale, the old leisure centre remains standing and empty to this day. Measuring around the size of five football fields, the site now features abandoned locker rooms, desolate sports pitches, and empty swimming pools. Earlier this month, social media explorer Luke2Explore captured footage of the decaying interiors, showcasing the stark contrast to its former vibrant life.
Community Impact and Future Prospects
The closure has left a void in the local area, with the pool and car park standing unused since the last activities moved to the new centre. As plans for potential housing developments loom, the fate of this forgotten Midlands leisure centre hangs in the balance, awaiting decisions that could transform it from a relic of the past into a new chapter for Dudley.
