Plans to reopen the Turkish baths at Swindon’s Health Hydro have been delayed, with improvements now expected to take longer than initially hoped. The Grade II*-listed building on Milton Road is undergoing a major restoration project.
Constructed in 1891 by the Great Western Railway Medical Fund, the Health Hydro was designed to provide wash baths, swimming pools, Turkish baths, and a comprehensive medical service under one roof. Works to transform the entrance, gym, and changing rooms are on track to be completed by early 2026, but the Turkish baths will remain closed for longer.
Marina Strinkovsky of Swindon Borough Council said: “I’m sad that the baths won’t be reopening along with the gym and the pool, but we’re working hard on funding and refurbishment plans to reopen them as soon as possible.”
Historic England funding has allowed specialist conservation teams to begin work on the roof of the Turkish baths relaxation room. Ms Strinkovsky added: “The Turkish baths are absolutely iconic, which is why it’s important we take the time to do this refurbishment correctly. Ensuring the roof is weatherproof and secure will be key to making improvements to the interior possible.”
The council has secured planning permission for a second phase of works, which will focus on ventilation, accessibility, and further conservation, although funding for this stage has yet to be confirmed.
Barnaby Rich, Swindon Partnership Manager at GLL, the charitable social enterprise operating the Health Hydro, said: “We are very supportive of Swindon Borough Council’s efforts to restore and revitalise the Health Hydro and the phased approach to what are complex renovations. Restoring the roof of the Turkish baths relaxation room is an important first step, which will then enable interior works to take place in due course.”
