£3.7m upgrade of Beverley Road Baths going swimmingly

Refurbishment is underway at Beverley Road Baths Picture by David Lee

Work is well underway on the multi-million refurbishment of one of Hull’s most characterful buildings built more than a century ago.

Beverley Road Baths opened to the public in May 1905 and remains a focal point for families and individuals in the heart of one the city’s most well-known communities.

Now, the Grade II listed building is undergoing £3.7 million of upgrades sympathetic to its history and its many original features which are still intact.

Early works to the external façade, roof, masonry and stonework of the building began in June last year and work is now underway on the internal refurbishment, including a major mechanical and electrical upgrade.

This will be followed by refurbishment of both wet and dry changing rooms, installation of a new sauna and steam room, replacement of ceilings and glazing, and remodelling the existing gym along with the creation of a new larger gym. Refurbishment of the main pool hall roof will also take place.

The project is being delivered by Hull Esteem Consortium LEP Ltd, Hull City Council’s pre-procured framework which has led the delivery of over £400m of new and improved education facilities across the city, along with culture and leisure regeneration projects, including Hull New Theatre and Ferens Art Gallery.

Councillor Daren Hale, Deputy Leader of Hull City Council and Portfolio Holder for Economic Investment, Regeneration and Planning, Land and Property, said: “It’s fantastic to see the works at Beverley Road Baths progressing as we invest to secure its future for the next 100 years.

“The council is committed to investing in the city’s leisure facilities and this project ensures there are much-needed jobs and opportunities for local contractors.

“We know our residents value these centres and we want to make sure they have the best possible facilities for leisure and physical wellbeing post-pandemic.

“Hull is a fantastic place to work, live, study, play and visit, and these facilities are just part of millions of pounds being spent both privately and publicly on the bright future of our city.”

Construction firm Hobson & Porter has been appointed to carry out the work, which is expected to be complete this summer.

Councillor Marjorie Brabazon, Chair of Hull Culture and Leisure, said: “Beverley Road Baths is a stunning historical building on one of Hull’s key gateways to the city centre and to see it given a new lease of life is fantastic for the area.

 “The centre is really popular and I know this investment will be very much welcomed by our users.

“We’re enjoying seeing the work progress and very much looking forward to eventually welcoming visitors back.”

Gavin Barley, General Manager of Hull Esteem, said the team is proud to be involved in the project.

“Beverley Road Baths is part of Hull’s heritage,” he said.

“Throughout the development process, we’ve worked very closely with the conservation officer to ensure we approach the refurbishment sensitively and sympathetically.

“We’ve carried out surveys on the tiling in an effort to preserve as much of the original structure and features as possible.

“This building will play a significant part in the health and wellbeing of Hull’s residents for many years to come and it’s fantastic to be involved.”

Hull Esteem is also developing plans to refurbish Albert Avenue Baths in west Hull, including reintroduction of the lido, with work expected to begin in summer.