Stirchley Baths marks ten years as a much-loved community hub

On Bournville Lane in Stirchley stands a building that has been given a second life by its community. Stirchley Baths, a Grade II listed Edwardian swimming baths, reopened as a community hub in January 2016, and 2026 marks the tenth anniversary of the refurbished building opening its doors.

The baths first opened to the public on 25 June 1911, built by the King's Norton and Northfield Urban District Council, with the Birmingham Baths Committee taking over later that year. The pool closed in 1986, after which the building fell into decline.

Its revival was a true community effort. Local groups campaigned for the baths to become a hub, and in 2013 Rob Gilbert, committee chair of the Stirchley Stores co-operative, wrote in support of a Heritage Lottery Fund bid, describing the plans as "a real focal point for the whole Stirchley community." Refurbishment began in January 2015, funded by the sale of the old community centre and a £1 million community development grant, with National Lottery support through the Heritage Lottery Fund.

A decade on, the building is busy. Karate, STELLA and table tennis groups have been meeting since 2016 and are still going strong, joined by regular clubs, societies and events. There is a café, rooms for hire and a schools programme, plus Stirchley Open Cinema screenings.

The building's past is celebrated too. Visitors can join heritage and tunnel tours, or follow the Explore Hidden Stirchley walking trail to discover more of the neighbourhood's history. In February 2026 the hub also hosted a Stirchley Jobs Fair, showing how it continues to serve local people in practical ways.

It sits at the heart of a neighbourhood known for its independent, co-operative spirit, alongside worker co-operatives such as Loaf and the Birmingham Bike Foundry.

For a building that once stood empty, it is a joyful turnaround and a reminder of what a determined community can achieve.

What's on listings, room hire details and tour information are available on the Stirchley Baths website.