Crumbling Victorian bath house in east London could soon look like this

A Victorian bath house in Clapton, which has fallen into disrepair, is set for a major transformation.

The return of the historic Kings Hall Leisure Centre to its full glory has moved a step closer after plans to revamp the facility received planning approval.

The changes, approved by Hackney Council’s planning sub-committee on 2 April, will safeguard the 1890s Victorian bath house’s heritage while creating a modern leisure centre including a refurbished pool alongside a brand new teaching pool with a moveable floor.

It will also host a new sauna, steam room and changing facilities, a fitness suite, a two-court sports hall and a new accessible entrance from Clapton Square.

The plans were developed by FaulknerBrowns, who designed Hackney Council’s award-winning Britannia Leisure Centre, and incorporates input from more than 250 local residents and leisure centre users.

Kings Hall is the only leisure facility serving residents in the east of Hackney. However the important social and historical landmark and Grade II listed building has deteriorated significantly in recent years, resulting in rising repair costs and worsening facilities for users.

Caroline Woodley, Mayor of Hackney, said: “Over generations, thousands of people have learnt to swim or use the gym at Kings Hall, and it has been difficult to see such a beautiful building deteriorate as it has aged.

“Despite challenging financial times, it is right that we’re investing to bring the leisure centre back to its full glory – protecting a historic building for future generations, but more importantly providing modern leisure facilities that our communities deserve in a part of Hackney that is currently underserved.”

Steve McIntyre, Partner, FaulknerBrowns, said: "By balancing preservation with modernisation, we can honour heritage sites like Kings Hall while making them functional and relevant for future generations."

Hackney Council will now look to appoint a contractor to deliver the plans this autumn. Subject to a contractor being appointed, work is expected to start in late 2025 and complete in late 2028.