Historic baths to be redeveloped

The swimming baths closed in 1997

Historic swimming baths in the heart of London's Soho will be restored to their former glory if a multi-million pound redevelopment is approved.

Marshall Street Baths would form part of a new leisure centre under a £25m deal secured by Westminster Council.

The Grade II listed building, which has housed swimming baths since 1852, closed in 1997 for safety reasons.

It is hoped the development, which includes a car park and a street cleansing depot, will be open by 2009.

Plans for the baths include complete restoration of the marble-lined main pool with new and upgraded changing facilities and a spa.

A new leisure facility housing a gym and fitness centre will form part of the complex.

Baths demolished

Councillor Daniel Astaire, of Westminster City Council, said: "It will hopefully be fantastic.

"It will be even more beautiful when it's full of water and locals and residents are swimming here."

Westminster City Council demolished the original baths in 1928, replacing them with a new complex in 1931 at a cost of £173,000.

The Marshall Street Regeneration consortium is now expected to submit plans for the scheme and carry out a public consultation.