A vital swimming pool at a major Birmingham hospital is to close permanently within days after surveys revealed serious structural and safety concerns.
Imminent Closure of a Vital Community Resource
The swimming pool at the Morris Sports Centre, located on the site of the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Selly Oak, will shut its doors for the final time on Wednesday, 31 December. The decision, confirmed by the University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust (UHB), was made due to 'significant safety and building risks' identified at the facility.
The pool is a cherished resource used extensively by NHS staff from the hospital, their families, and injured soldiers recuperating at the adjacent Fisher House. It also hosts school groups, swimming clubs, and community organisations, and has been touted as a key asset for recruiting staff to the hospital.
Extensive Repairs Required at 'Considerable' Cost
According to an email from UHB's estates department seen by BirminghamLive, the site requires significant repairs to its roof. Furthermore, much of the swimming pool's plant equipment has reportedly reached the end of its operational life, necessitating a 'considerable' financial investment to bring it up to modern standards.
Detailed structural and technical surveys are now planned to determine the full extent and cost of the necessary work. "Once full costs are identified, the UHB Trust will review the findings and decide whether the required works can be funded," the email stated. The future of the pool now hangs in the balance pending this review.
Impact on Members and Wider Community
The closure will directly affect around 4,500 members. Swim-only memberships will end on 31 December, with members advised to cancel standing orders, while full memberships will be adjusted to gym-only access from January.
In the email, the centre committee expressed its disappointment: "It has been a privilege to serve our community and see the many health benefits the Centre has brought to so many people... We would encourage you to contact the Trust CEO, Jonathan Brotherton, to outline the impact prolonged or permanent closure would have on you."
Local member James Butler described the pool as a "precious haven" and questioned why one of Europe's largest hospital trusts could not invest in such a vital wellbeing resource. He highlighted its unique role in supporting NHS staff's mental and physical health and providing accessible swimming for children and those with disabilities.
The gym at the Morris Centre will remain open, but its long-term future is also uncertain. A review will assess the feasibility of keeping it open beyond 31 March 2026.
Local MP for Edgbaston, Preet Gill, has intervened, stating she will "look to preserve this facility if possible" and has written to the Trust CEO for an urgent explanation.
A UHB spokesman reiterated: "We know how valued the pool is by colleagues and the wider community, but member safety must remain our highest priority. We continue to work closely with the centre committee to explore all possible future options."
