Controversial pool open to public

The project overcame a judial review

A controversial £85m redevelopment in north London has opened to the public.

Replacing the existing swimming baths, the centre in Swiss Cottage boasts a theatre, library, gym, swimming pool and 22 affordable homes.

Roland Grimm of Save Swiss Cottage Baths, which took the project to a judicial review, maintains overcrowding will become a problem in the pool.

But Theo Blackwell of Camden Council is confident the "top quality facilities" will win over the community.

Mr Blackwell said: "This will add to the character of the area and provide top quality facilities for people, not only local but across north London."

Standing by his objections, Mr Grimm said: "You can't replace two 33m pools with one 25m pool, before you know it this pool is going to be completely overcrowded."