The Victorian landmark, is set to welcome swimmers and gym users again when it opens on Monday 19 January 2026.
The building has been shut while the initial phase of improvement works was carried out. The project has delivered upgraded changing rooms, a new entrance hall, refreshed gym and activity areas, improved energy efficiency and updated plant rooms to support the long-term operation of the facility.
Because the Health Hydro is a Grade II* listed site, early investigations identified challenges that required specialist redesign to protect the heritage features. Contractors also carried out extensive asbestos removal to ensure the building is safe for future phases of restoration.
Funding for the work came from several sources, including grants from Historic England, Towns Fund money, Section 106 contributions and investment from Swindon Borough Council.
Councillor Marina Strinkovsky, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Placemaking and Planning, said:
“It’s fantastic that the Health Hydro will reopen in January, and I want to thank everyone involved for the skill and care they’ve brought to this complex first phase.
“The Hydro is a unique and historic building and taking the right approach has meant working thoughtfully and safely at every stage. The result is a facility that’s ready to welcome people back, with significant improvements already in place.
“I’m really looking forward to seeing swimmers and gym users enjoying the Hydro again. And while this reopening marks a major milestone, we’re continuing to work hard to secure funding for the next phases of restoration.”
Plans for further refurbishment are progressing, and the Council has secured planning permission and listed building consent for phase two. This next stage focuses on improvements to the main pool hall, including ventilation, accessibility and environmental upgrades, along with more conservation work. Funding for the next phase has not yet been secured.
Work is also underway to restore the roof of the Turkish Baths Relaxation Room after additional funding was awarded from Historic England’s Heritage At Risk Capital Fund.
Barnaby Rich, GLL Partnership Manager for Swindon, added: “We are looking forward to welcoming back our customers to the Health Hydro in January.
“With a comprehensive gym fit out, renovated communal areas and changing rooms and the first phase of the swimming hall refurbishment now complete, anyone coming through the doors will see numerous improvements.
“While extensive ‘behind the scenes’ work has also taken place to improve energy efficiency and upgrade plant and equipment; contributing to an improved customer experience.”
Further details about the reopening can be found at www.better.org.uk/leisure-centre/swindon
