The Health Hydro
What is happening now?
First phase of works
The first phase of the work is now complete.
This first phase, constructed by EW Beard, was funded by Swindon Borough Council, Swindon’s Town Deal, Historic England and Greenwich Leisure Limited, and includes:
- repair and conservation works to the building’s façade on Faringdon Road
- roof and valley gutter repairs
- conversion of the former Washing Baths Hall into a new entrance and reception, gym and fitness suite
- new accessible changing facilities
- new plant areas to accommodate all future needs of the building
- a new boiler and filtration systems for the large swimming pool
- new ventilation systems to serve the gym, changing areas and pool hall
- a new heater for the Turkish Baths
- a new electrical supply to serve the entire building
Alongside this work, we have been securing funding to deliver further phases of restoration and move towards the complete vision for the Health Hydro.
In March 2023, the National Lottery Heritage Fund awarded Swindon Borough Council a Development Grant of £409,000. This funding supports the preparation of a Round 2 application for a further £4 million.
If successful, this funding, together with match funding, will complete the restoration of the main swimming pool hall. It will also support interpretation to tell the story of the Health Hydro and a three-year programme of activities to encourage people to visit the building and engage with its heritage.
If the Round 2 application is successful, work is expected to start in 2027.
What did the first phase of work include?
The physical works included:
- comprehensive roof repairs, insulation and re-glazing
- replacement and upgrades to the front-end air handling and ventilation system, including related structural alterations, to allow full operational control and stabilisation of air temperature and humidity
- works to optimise the pool’s filtration system
- other services upgrades, including IT, data and power connectivity
- internal repairs and conservation works, including soffit boards, the spectator gallery (floor boarding, seating and balustrades), brickwork and stonework
- repurposing reclaimed terrazzo from existing and renovated changing areas into benching, decoration and finishing
- repairs, insulation and conservation works to the stained glass window