Dear Friends and Supporters,

We stand at a crucial juncture in the history of Thimblemill Baths, a cherished local landmark in Bearwood, Smethwick. This iconic building, one of only two public baths of its kind still accessible in the country, is under threat. Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council has closed its doors to the public and put it up for sale. We need your help to prevent this architectural gem from slipping into private hands, potentially lost to our community forever.

Opened in 1933, Thimblemill Baths is a testament to the grandeur of 1930s civic architecture. It's not just a building; it's a symbol of our shared heritage, a beacon of community spirit, and a reminder of our collective past. We, at The People’s Orchestra, are deeply committed to preserving this heritage. Our vision is to restore Thimblemill Baths to its former glory, not as a public baths, but as a vibrant concert hall and community space.

Imagine the echoes of the past, the sounds of The Who and The The Beetles, who once filled the halls of this historic building with sound. Roll forward and now picture a place where we can host concerts and community events, record film music, and bring our community together with lots of fun activities and events. This is the future we envision for Thimblemill Baths.

In partnership with the West Midlands Heritage Buildings Trust, and with the support of the West Midlands Combined Authority, we are working tirelessly to secure Heritage, Arts Council, and National Lottery funding. Our goal is to restore Thimblemill Baths, preserving its unique heritage while adapting it for modern use.

We urgently need your support. Time is of the essence, and every signature counts. We must act now to prevent Thimblemill Baths from suffering the same fate as The Royalty in Harborne - left empty, fire-damaged, and with little hope of restoration very soon.

Please sign this petition and reach out to your local councillors and MPs, urging them to support our bid. Together, we can save Thimblemill Baths and secure its future as a beacon of community and culture.

Thank you for standing with us. Your support can make a difference.

Sincerely,

The People’s Orchestra