Hackney’s Haggerston Baths to become workspace

Developers are to turn an historic east London swimming pool building that had fallen into “a state of disrepair” into offices, a cafe and community space, after receiving planning permission. Castleforge got the green light from Hackney Council this week for its scheme at Grade II-listed Haggerston Baths, E2, which was built in 1904 but has lain empty for more than two decades. The Squire & Partners-designed development will create 59,000 sq ft of offices, while the Edwardian pool hall will become a “flexible community space” with public access for at least five days a week. It will also entail a new six-storey extension, which will replace an existing extension, a cafe and a gym. Hackney Council selected developer Castleforge for the retrofit after a public consultation and competitive tender process in 2017. Historic England said the existing building is in a “state of disrepair”, with the main pool covered in graffiti. It costs the council £100,000 a year for security and maintenance of the empty building. Hackney’s planning committee voted unanimously to approve the scheme at a meeting on Wednesday. Matthew Reid, head of development and asset management at Castleforge, said: “It is great to see our planning application for Haggerston Baths proceed to the next stage with Hackney Council. “We are looking forward to bringing this Grade II listed building back to life while conserving its most significant original heritage features. Castleforge is committed to adding value to the Haggerston community by seeing it removed from the Historic England Heritage At-Risk Register.”   To send feedback, e-mail alex.daniel@eg.co.uk or tweet @alexmdaniel or @EGPropertyNews Images © Simon Mooney/JORG