The petition, containing over 3,000 signatures, calls on the Council to re-open Moseley Road’s historic Gala Pool, closed since August 2003, retain the building as a publicly-owned dual pool facility, whilst restoring its rare and unique architectural features.

They will be joined by campaigners for Sparkhill Baths which has recently been closed and whose future is uncertain. They will also present a smaller number of petitions.

Prior to the handing in of the petitions protesters will display banners at both Sparkhill Baths (9:30) and Moseley Road (10:00) calling for refurbishment and maintenance of community pools to be given priority.

BCC Cabinet meets on Monday, when it will consider proposals to invest up to £2m to refurbish Moseley Road Baths, along with cash for the nearby Sparkhill Pool.

‘Our petition represents the views of numerous Balsall Heath and Moseley residents who want them restored for future generations to enjoy. While we hope BCC will today approve the expenditure required to re-open the Gala Pool, we see this as merely the first - though hugely important - step towards the eventual full restoration of this, the jewel in the crown of Britain’s operational historic swimming baths. ‘

Russ Spring Chair FoMRB

The protest is the first of a united campaign to save pools in the Hall Green constituency.

For more information please contact 07806 557509