Redevelopment Project

The historic swimming baths on Milton Road have been in need of an update for a long time and, thanks to funding from the Government’s Towns Fund, GLL, and Swindon Borough Council, the facility closed in April 2023 to allow the initial regeneration work to progress.

This first phase of work includes:

  • The repair and conservation of a section of the building’s façade to Faringdon Road
  • Roof and valley gutter repairs
  • The conversion of the former Washing Baths Hall into a new entrance and reception area, gym and fitness suite
  • New accessible changing facilities
  • New plant areas to accommodate all future needs of the building
  • New heating and filtration systems for the large swimming pool
  • New ventilation systems to service the gym, changing areas and pool hall
  • New heater for the Turkish Baths
  • Upgraded electrical supply to service the entire building

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Health Hydro closing?

The centre closed on 1st April 2023. 

How long is the centre closing for?

This important first phase of restoration is due to completed by the end of the year. It is anticipated the pool will reopen to the public in early 2026 after a period of fit out by leisure operators GLL

What works are taking place?

Phase 1 works will see the creation of a brand new gym and activity space, which will be equipped with the latest fitness equipment and designed to cater to a wide range of exercise preferences and abilities.

In addition to the gym, the refurbishment project will also create modern, fit for purpose and accessible changing facilities with level access from the entrance to poolside.

Finally, the refurbishment project will also involve the replacement and upgrading of mechanical, electrical and plumbing plant systems throughout the facility.

What other works are planned for the rest the building?

There is a desire to carry out future phases of work to the remaining areas of the building, the extent and timescales will be dependent on the project team being able to secure future funding. This will not likely be possible until after phase 1 has been delivered.

What options are available for Swim School members?

Additional ring-fenced classes have been opened up at Link Centre and Dorcan Recreation Complex.

What options are available for Health Hydro members?

Members that only have access to gym, swim and classes at Health Hydro have had their access increased to include all Swindon centres free of charge from 1st April 2023. 

What other options are there for gym and fitness class sessions at Better centres in Swindon?

Link Centre, Dorcan Recreation Complex and Haydon Centre have alternative gym facilities.

All three centre have large, free car parks.

Link Centre

Dorcan Recreation Complex

Haydon Centre

 

What other options are there for Turkish Bath (spa pool/sauna/steam) replacement facilities at Better centres in Swindon?

Unfortunately there are no other Better centres in Swindon with these types of facilities.

How can I get to Link Centre, Haydon Centre and Dorcan using public transport?

Link Centre - Bus numbers 1, 1A or 1B. Can be picked up from Swindon Bus Station (Bay 7) along Faringdon Road (Stop P) or Railway Village (NW Bound).

Dorcan Recreation Complex - Bus number 2. Can be picked up from Swindon Bus Station (Bay 10)

Haydon Centre - Bus Number 5. Can be pick up from Regent Circus (Stop A), Swindon Bus station (Bay 8) or at stops along Faringdon Road (Stop N) or Railway Village (NW bound)

What will happen to the staff working at the centre?

All colleagues have successfully been redeployed to our other leisure centres in Swindon.