Birmingham City Council (BCC) has confirmed that Newtown Baths is set to reopen in early 2010 after it secured funding for the restoration of the facility.

Newtown Baths closed earlier this year after traces of asbestos were found in the building's ceiling and roof, but work is now set to start on a £140,000 scheme to remove the asbestos and install new structural supports. BCC cabinet member for leisure, sport and culture, Martin Mullaney, said: "Re-opening this pool is a major boost and this terrific news clearly demonstrates our commitment to community pools here in Birmingham.

"We have an ambitious long-term goal for new community pools across the city but we know the importance of keeping existing facilities open in the meantime."