UK Government Approves Demolition of Grade II-Listed Coventry Central Baths

The demolition of Coventry Central Baths, a Grade II-listed Olympic-size swimming pool from the 1960s, has been sanctioned by the UK government. Originally opened in 1966 and created by the Coventry City Architect's Department, the facility has been out of operation since 2020 following the construction of a new Olympic pool by the council. Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, Steve Reed, approved the Listed Building Consent for the demolition. Both the Twentieth Century Society and Coventry Society have expressed their disapproval, labeling the decision a 'tragedy' and an 'opportunity missed.' Historic England recognized the baths as 'amongst the most ambitious baths built anywhere in Britain' in 1997. The council cited £400,000 in annual maintenance costs since closure as justification for the demolition. Despite seven parties showing interest and two formal bids being submitted, the council dismissed them as 'unviable.' The society also pointed out regional disparities, contrasting this decision with the £130 million refurbishment of the Crystal Palace Sports Centre in London. While the adjacent Elephant sports hall, constructed in 1977, will remain standing, it is currently unused. No plans for a replacement structure or future use of the site have been established, aside from an 'area of hard standing.'