Haggerston Pools Trust calls on Council to reopen derelict swimming baths
Haggerston Baths covered with graffiti. Photograph: Hackney Council
Campaigners battling to save a Grade-II listed bathhouse have urged Hackney Council to reopen the pool after it announced “expressions of interest” were being sought for the building’s future.
Haggerston Baths on Whiston Road could be turned into flats or a hotel, according to an online brochure which is being marketed by French bank BNP Paribas.
The Town Hall says it would need investment of £25 million to restore the building which has been used as a squat and is covered in graffiti after lying empty for 15 years. The Council insists the pool is not up for sale, but a number of local residents say they are confused over the website’s offer of a 250 year lease.
Haggerston Pools Trust campaigners tried to get the pool listed as an Asset of Community Value last year but were unsuccessful. Liz Hughes, a spokesperson for Haggerston Pools Trust is calling on the Council to hold a public meeting to “explain what is happening” and to listen to residents’ views.
“We have campaigned for Haggerston Pool for 15 years, and call on the Council prioritise the refurbishment of the building as a swimming pool alongside community facilities. We have spoken to the council officers involved, and they have told us that the pools is not for sale, and that they are looking for good ideas for rescuing the building,” said Hughes.
Boarded up: The building with its windows sealed.
Hackney’s Mayor Jules Pipe, said the Council’s “ever-shrinking resources” meant the Haggerston Baths project could not be a priority.
Pipe said he was aware of the “strength of feeling” about the baths. “For that reason, 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.”
“We would particularly welcome someone with viable, sustainable plans to re-establish use of the barrel-vaulted pool hall,” he said.
Despite the Council splashing out £100,000 a year on maintenance and security, the building has fallen into disrepair and has been used as a venue for squat parties. Late last year Hackney Police tweeted:
Working with London Borough of Hackney rave venue at Haggerston Baths has been repossessed by lawful owner and squatters removed #GDSW
— Hackney MPS (@MPSHackney) December 5, 2014
The baths are included in the Victorian Society’s list of the most endangered Victorian and Edwardian buildings in England and Wales due to its cultural and architectural significance.
