A top swimming boss paid a visit to the Sandwell Aquatics Centre to view it’s progress.
The President of FINA, the Fédération Internationale de Natation [International Swimming Federation] saw how £73 million facility is undergoing a massive upgrade to host the Commonwealth Games swimming and diving events.
Mr Husain Al-Musallam, President of FINA said he was “impressed” with the centre which recently had new seats installed for audiences. When complete they will hold around a thousand spectators.
Site construction over the last year includes 1.2 million gallons poured into the swimming pools, West Midlands ’ first 10m diving board platform and further plans including fitness gyms, sports halls, activity studios, steam rooms and a private swimming pool.
Visitors to the site have included para swimming champion Ellie Simmonds and MP Nadine Dorries.
Mr Husain Al-Musallam said: “It was fantastic to visit the Sandwell Aquatics Centre this week. Many partners are working closely together to ensure that this important venue is completed on time, and it is shaping up well for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.
“I was very impressed with this state-of-the-art facility.”
Accompanying the President was Matt Kidson, Director of Sport for Birmingham 2022 who said: “It was an honour to escort Mr Al-Musallam on his tour of the Sandwell Aquatics Centre and to show him how much progress has been made on this facility.
“As the venue for swimming, para swimming and diving at Birmingham 2022, the centre will be in use on every single day of the Games. Aquatics is a very important sport for Birmingham 2022, with more medals to be awarded at the Sandwell Aquatics Centre than at any other venue.
“With just over five months to go, it was great to get the FINA President’s stamp of approval for the preparations we’ve been making ahead of the Games.”
Source: Husna Anjum
