Reviving Victoria Baths: A Feasibility Study on Preserving Iconic Heritage. The client, entrusted with Victoria Baths, aimed to preserve the historic building and restore it as a fully operational swimming facility to unite the community. PSA conducted a thorough survey and feasibility study, revealing significant challenges in restoring the building’s services and systems. Although it couldn’t return as a public pool, the building now serves various purposes, including office space, event hosting, and occasional nostalgic swimming days, fostering community engagement and preserving its heritage.
CLIENT: Victoria Baths
LOCATION: Manchester
SERVICES: Feasibility Study working with Triangle Architects
CLIENT OBJECTIVES
Victoria Baths, built in 1906, stands as a grade II* listed building in Manchester, cherished by the community for its rich history and significance. After falling into disrepair and ceasing to function as a swimming pool, this iconic structure was entrusted from Manchester City Council to a trust. The trust’s primary objective was to prevent the building from falling into ruin and ideally, restore it to its former glory as a fully operational swimming facility. Above all, they aimed to utilise the building as a means to unite the community.
OUR SOLUTION
In 1998, PSA conducted a thorough survey and audit of the premises, culminating in a comprehensive feasibility study. This study aimed to guide the trust on available options, considering factors such as heating and water services, as well as the building’s safety. The findings revealed significant challenges: the building services were in poor condition, the electrical systems were outdated, the existing pipework had reached end of its life and heating the building was problematic. Realising the considerable investment and extensive renovation required to reinstate it as a swimming pool, alternative uses were explored.
THE OUTCOME
While the building couldn’t be restored to its former function as a public pool, it remains in use for various purposes. Over the years, it has served as office space, hosted meetings, used for filming, music events, a social club and accommodated other events of diverse sizes and types. Occasionally, it even transforms into an indoor swimming pool for a single day, providing moments of nostalgia and community engagement. Also used for film locations, music events, social clubs etc.
