THE PROJECT
Phase 1
The sensitive refurbishment works have created an open plan exercise
space and gym for the community, accessible changing rooms, the
modernisation of energy performance and upgrading plant for future
phases.
The project includes asbestos removal, demolition of existing changing
block and pool filters and construction of new; vertical extension of south
east corner of building to create new plant room including insertion of steel
frame; renewal of pool plant; conversion of former bath house to create
new gym space; renewal of building services within the Phase 1 area;
conservation repairs to building fabric. The 33m long large pool will be
reopened as part of the works.
Swimming pool filtration
New swimming pool micro filters with a flow rate of 175m3/hr were installed replacing the existing filtration tanks and a brand new control system is being installed to give accurate time and temperature controls for energy efficiency.
Within the pool area at Health Hydro, Swindon, a series of significant refurbishment works were undertaken to improve both functionality and long‑term performance. Old layers of paint were carefully stripped back, and areas that had previously provided ventilation were bricked in to allow for improved environmental control within the space. We replaced rotten structure to the high level window and boarded it with Shiplap boarding, contributing to the overall upgrade of the pool environment.
A major investment was made in the installation of a new, modern filtration system, which formed a key part of the pool area works. To safely decommission the original filtration system, a specialist scuba diver team was required to block off the old filter within the pool structure.
Due to the age and sensitivity of the building, the existing water within the pool had to be pumped out gradually in small quantities. This careful process took approximately one week to complete and helped minimise risk to the historic fabric of the pool.
While some original features within the pool area could not be restored as part of this phase due to funding constraints, there are plans to reinstate these elements in future phases when additional funding becomes available.
THE PROJECT
Phase 2
The Turkish Baths underwent carefully considered works to ensure safety while respecting their historic significance. Unsafe existing electrics were fully replaced, with new lighting and a modern fire alarm system installed throughout.
A new skylight was introduced, alongside a highly sensitive and lengthy process to remove layers of paint from the walls. Extensive protective measures were put in place during this work to preserve the historic fabric of the building.
The interiors feature distinctive glazed bricks, originally created by railway workers and now no longer available, adding to the rarity and heritage value of the space. The layout incorporates three different saunas and two plunge pools and was refurbished in line with the historic arrangement of the baths.
Construction works undertaken by Beard focused on completing selected areas to a safe and compliant standard, rather than delivering a full refurbishment of the Turkish Baths.
£8.2M
CONTRACT VALUE
57 WEEKS
CONTRACT DURATION
Customer
Swindon
Borough Council
Architect
Donald
Install Associates
Quantity Surveyor
Walker Associates
Form of Contract
Single Stage
Maintaining relationships with Health Hydro societies
Working openly with frequent communication allowed us to create a successful relationship with local community groups associated with the Health Hydro. The friends of the Health Hydro were included in site visit and helped deliver 3 Open Doors careers events held in March 2024.
Asbestos
Demolition works uncovered areas of asbestos not previously identified, these were immediately investigated and controlled through an external
contractor to to prevent any delays to the refurbishment works.
Heritage Protection Measures
During construction, significant interior heritage features such as the pool hall, original glazed tiles and decorative plasterwork were at risk of damage, which was mitigated through detailed condition surveys, protective coverings, and specialist supervision.
