University of Birmingham Sport & Fitness Centre is located on the corner of the Bristol Road and Edgbaston Park Road. Built on the site of the Gun Barrels pub. It was demolished by 2013 or 2014.
Gun Barrels pub on Google Maps Street View, April 2010
As well as being a facility enjoyed by students and staff, the Sports & Fitness Club is an important centre for community health and well-being. Substantial effort was made during construction to ensure all facilities are as accessible as possible for those with disabilities, injuries or other specific access requirements.
University of Birmingham Sports & Fitness (February 2021). Photography by Daniel Sturley
The Sports Centre encompasses:
Birmingham’s first 50m swimming pool
The swimming pool at University of Birmingham Sport & Fitness (June 2022). Photography by Elliott Brown
A large multi-sports arena
Six glass-backed squash courts
A 10m climbing wall and five activity studios
'Chrissie's Gym (named after Ironman Triathlon World Champion, Chrissie Wellington OBE)
The club is testiment to the University of Birmingham's commitment to sport at all levels. The centre provides unrivalled opportunities for everyone from beginners to elite athletes, supported by a world-class team of trainers and sports experts. It is home to our many sports clubs, allowing them to train and compete at the highest level, as well as having access to the University’s Hi Performance Centre which specialises in rehabilitation from injury and illness.
Community Activities at the Sports Centre
The Sport & Fitness club offers a wide range of programmes including a choice of up to 200 fitness and sports classes a week, and an extensive learn to swim programme for all ages.
The swimming pool at University of Birmingham Sport & Fitness (June 2022). Photography by Elliott Brown
The build of the Sports Centre
The construction at a cost of £55 million was led by Interserve. The building was opened in May 2017.
December 2014
Construction is well underway as you can see from the steel girders going up from the Bristol Road.
Construction starts at the University of Birmingham Sports Centre (December 2014). Photography by Elliott Brown
May 2016
By now the building was getting the golden cladding installed on the right near Edgbaston Park Road.
University of Birmingham Sports & Fitness (May 2016). Photography by Elliott Brown
December 2016
It's name had been revealed by the end of the year: University of Birmingham Sports & Fitness. The surface was very reflective when new.
University of Birmingham Sports & Fitness (December 2016). Photography by Elliott Brown
March 2017
The building was more or less complete, but was various delays before the building finally opened later that spring.
University of Birmingham Sport & Fitness (March 2017). Photography by Elliott Brown
March 2018
The building was now open. Outside it was snowing during March during the weather event known as the Beast from the East.
University of Birmingham Sports & Fitness (March 2018). Photography by Elliott Brown
November 2019
The other side from the South Gate entrance, close to the Bristol Road. The building also has a new Costa Coffee.
University of Birmingham Sports & Fitness (November 2019). Photography by Elliott Brown