Haggerston Baths could be in for a revival after Hackney Council began inviting developers to register their interest in the east London site. The Grade II-listed bath complex, designed by architect AWS Cross, first opened in 1904 but has been closed to the public since 2000.
‘We are determined to identify a long-term and sustainable future for the building,’ says Jules Pipe, Mayor of Hackney. ‘We would particularly welcome someone with viable, sustainable plans to re-establish use of the barrel-vaulted pool hall.’
The Edwardian structure has dilapidated considerably since its closure and the council says it spends £100,000 a year just on maintenance and security. Its condition has worsened to such an extent that it appeared in the Victorian Society’s list of most endangered buildings back in 2013.
Plans for a £25 million restoration were scrapped in 2011 because of the recession. The council is now hoping a developer will come forward to revitalise the baths in a way that benefits this part of east London.
‘We will only consider working with an appropriate partner, such as someone who is prepared to use the building for the benefit of the community or to revitalise the local area,’ Pipe adds.
