An ambitious multi-million pound project to bring Ashton-under-Lyne’s former municipal baths back into use has received a boost with confirmation of a £1.7 million grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund’s (HLF) Heritage Enterprise programme (HE).
Designed by architects Paull and Robinson, Ashton Old Baths was built in 1870 in the Italianate style of architecture. It served as municipal baths until the 1970s when it closed and has remained largely derelict and on English Heritage’s ‘Heritage at Risk’ Register.
The project will restore the building to its former glory, with plans to create a 21st century business premises for start-up and early stage companies in a freestanding structure within the main pool hall.
An exciting and extensive activity programme, delivered by Tameside Council’s Cultural Services Team, will be rolled out as part of the project. This will include providing public access to the building through open days and a permanent art interpretation. Two heritage apprenticeships, extensive volunteer opportunities and partnership working with community organisations and schools will also be key to ensuring the local community are involved with the project.
The plans are already generating a groundswell of public support, highlighted recently when the building was showcased for the first time in 40 years during the Tameside Heritage Open Weekend which saw over 500 people queuing around the building for hours to catch a glimpse of its unique heritage features.
Councillor John Taylor, Deputy Executive Leader of Tameside Council, said: “I always used to think this building was an eyesore positioned at one of the important gateways to Ashton’s town centre, but not anymore. Once I’d had a look round inside and seen the intricate wooden roof beams, I was hooked; it’s breathtakingly beautiful.
“I’m really excited about this project and feel sure that once it’s been brought back into use, the public will also fall in love with it
Sara Hilton, Head of the Heritage Lottery Fund North West, said: “Ashton Old Baths is a fantastic example of 19th century architecture which has served and inspired generations of local residents. Its fascinating history is tightly interwoven with the social history and culture of Ashton and Tameside. We are delighted to add our support to a project which will not only ensure the building’s survival but will also inspire and make a significant contribution to the local economy for years to come.”
David Smith-Milne, Managing Director of the building’s owners, property development company, PlaceFirst Ltd added: “The Council has worked hard to secure this important funding which will help significantly with the viability of proposals to bring this important heritage building back into a sustainable use. We at PlaceFirst will continue to work with the Council and other stakeholders on delivering those proposals.”
