Health Hydro Phase 1 Open. Well, it’s been a while – but it was always going to be that. Anyway as of today, phase 1 of the renovation of the long-neglected, Grade II* listed health hydro is now open. Note: AKA Milton Road Baths.
I’ve somehow managed to be unavailable for all the tours of the progress so far that’s been on offer. So coming up are a few words and pics from Jason Spickett. Jason runs the Swindon from the Air Facebook page – and it has some fab pics on it. You’ll find it here: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61580272965974
Jason’s tour review – edited a little for SEO purposes
With the aim of improving health and cleanliness, the GWR Medical Fund Society built the baths between 1891 and 1892.
The first thing to say is that the renovation works have been carried out with sensitivity. Thus the project has preserved the historic fabric of the building where possible.
As you enter the building, a reception area greets you. It has a timber boundary that also runs around the large gym area. Much effort has been expended in maintaining the dark wood colour used thought the Works and offices.
Many of the walls throughout have a covering of white glazed bricks. Yes, that’s right glazed bricks, not tiles stuck onto brick.
The ventilation system is all brand new and designed to complement the original building. It offers excellent air distribution that manages the warmth and condensation levels. That helps protect the building and those in it.
A behind the scenes visit to the plant rooms gives you an idea of the investment and thought put into the project. Everything is right up to date with first class filtration that even uses ultraviolet light to treat the water. They’ve geared everything in this room towards energy saving and the environment.
The changing rooms for both the gym and pool are all brand-new with showers and individual changing areas. Where possible the rooms look up through sections of roof made of timber and glass. The whole area has temperature control for comfort.
See also: https://www.swindon.gov.uk/info/20030/planning_and_building_control/1714/the_health_hydro
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