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New chapter for University of Birmingham's 'Old Gym'

Run-down building given new lease of life after being threatened with demolition

'Old Gym' at University of Birmingham

A disused former gym building on the University of Birmingham's campus is now embarking on a new chapter after undergoing a major renovation.

Known simply as the 'Old Gym', the building now has a lecture theatre, study space and meeting rooms capable of accommodating more than 260 students.

The Old Gym was built between 1939-41 by Peacock and Bewlay and was still in use as a gym when it was earmarked for demolition as part of the University of Birmingham's masterplan.

How the Old Gym used to look

Its usage was reassessed, prompting the demolition application to be removed after which a project was launched to determine whether it could be refurbished economically and a suitable use found.

The project's aim was to convert the building into modern teaching spaces and new open-plan offices for staff.

Designed by Birmingham practice Associated Architects, the project's construction and refurbishment was undertaken by Willmott Dixon.

Warren Jukes, a director with Associated Architects, said: "The building is not just interesting for its architecture.

Old Gym now has a lecture theatre and study spaces

"It was built under the supervision of Albert Davis Munrow, the university's first director of physical education, a full-time position established in 1939 in order to set up a scheme of physical education as an integral part of the university curriculum."