Neglected public baths in search of new role
Grade II-listed, 1904, A.W. Cross
This magnificent former bathhouse, on Whiston Road in Hackney, has been closed and boarded up since 2000, and has seen plans to secure its future undermined by the recession, despite its proximity to the London 2012 opportunity area. Plans to refurbish and reopen the building as a pool were scrapped, and the glazed barrel-vaulted roof has now witnessed more than a decade of creeping dilapidation. It was built by Shoreditch Borough Council to serve the needs of this underprivileged area, and it remains an important topic of conversation for public health campaigners. There is a strong local campaign to save the pool and a health or fitness centre has been proposed to make better use of the building. At a time when there is so much new development in the area, the population is rebounding, and green space is coming under increasing pressure from speculative development, there is a strong argument for putting the bathhouse back into public use.
Status Update / October 2026
In 2022, it appeared that a redevelopment scheme put forward by private real estate investor Castleforge had received approval from Hackney Council Planning subcommittee, however ultimately this proved financially unviable. In September of 2025 the full planning application for the redevelopment of the baths expired, followed by the expiry of the Listed Building Consent application in April 2026. It disappointing to see Haggerston Baths vacant and with an uncertain future, especially given the high levels of local support to reopen the baths for community use, and examples of other derelict bath houses in the country successfully finding a new purpose.
Status Update / March 2026
With unanimous planning approval granted in 2022, works are currently underway to repurpose this striking local landmark as a hub for small businesses in Hackney. The proposals re-purpose the top-lit pool as a co-working space for local start-ups, while also accommodating a variety of public and community purposes, including event and exhibition spaces, a coffee shop, a fitness centre, and conference rooms. The original elevations will be repaired and refurbished, with the brick chimney and metal copula restored to their original appearance. The newer elevations will be replaced, providing scope for contemporary extensions which support the business case for the works.