Full steam ahead for £16million refit of historic London baths

Final approval has been given for major work to improve Islington's much-loved Ironmonger Row Baths.

The Grade II-listed Turkish Baths, pool, gym and laundry complex is being given a huge £16million revamp by Islington Council and EC1 New Deal for Communities.

Work on the building, which is in Finsbury and dates from the 1930s, will begin in May and includes:

• improving the main pool's heating, plumbing, ventilation and efficiency, and building a new bigger training pool
   
• restoring and refurbishing the famous Turkish Baths, with an expanded spa area
   
• creating a new larger gym, and two new exercise studios
   
• installing better changing rooms, a new entrance, and improving accessibility

In response to feedback from local residents, the new complex will continue to offer laundry facilities, as it has since it opened in 1931.

Planning permission was granted for the revamp earlier this year, and now listed building consent has been agreed by the Government.

The centre will close in May so the work can begin and reopen in May 2012 in time for the 2012 Olympic Games.

The project is being funded with more than £12million investment from Islington Council and £3.7million investment from EC1 New Deal for Communities.

Cllr Ruth Polling, Islington Council's executive member for leisure and equalities, said: "Ironmonger Row Baths has been at the heart of its community since it opened 80 years ago.

"It is now getting major investment from the council and EC1 New Deal for Communities so it can keep serving residents for many years to come.

"The centre does need to temporarily close while this major work takes place. We've made other arrangements where possible - like giving the gym a temporary home next door in Finsbury Leisure Centre. Pool, sauna and laundry users will be offered information about other local options.

"This very exciting project will give Ironmonger Row Baths a future as bright as its history."

Kirby Swales, Chief Executive for EC1 New Deal for Communities said:
"What's significant is the plans ensure the Baths remain an asset for the local community.

"Residents were particularly keen for us to retain the laundry and it is an important part of the new design.

"Along with the brighter more welcoming reception area, vastly improved gym, exercise studios and pool, it will make Ironmonger Row Baths an inviting place to meet up, get fit and stay healthy."