Developer takes control of Grade II listed site

The developer of a former Grade II listed baths which has stood derelict for two decades has penned a conditional long lease with the council as part of their commitment to transform the property.

Heath Town Baths and Library, which was engulfed by fire in 2022, was granted listed status in September 2000.

Gaddu Associates has now taken full control of the site and has carried out some early works to make it safe and secure.

The lease agreement makes them responsible for the restoration of the Grade II listed building and future use as a venue, setting strict criteria for the delivery of the scheme that will be overseen by the council.

The agreed plans are to fully refurbish it for a variety of uses including a banqueting hall, day nursery and training and conference facilities.

It follows extensive community consultation by Gaddu Associates.

The Tudor Road site in Heath Town is recognised as a building of community value in the Heathfield Park Neighbourhood Plan and the council said it was eager to see it put back into use to boost the whole area.

Councillor Chris Burden said: "The historic Heath Town Baths and Library building is much loved, and we are looking forward to seeing the developer progress this scheme now they have signed a conditional long lease.

"The council recognises the importance of community assets such as this and are keen to see it brought back into beneficial use for Heath Town and the wider city."

Pavan Gaddu of Gaddu Associates said: "We are glad to start works on the former Heath Town Baths and Library and want the local community to engage with us in the redevelopment of this most iconic building that has so much history and fond stories attached to it.

"We have had so many people talk to us about their happy memories and we want to see them be a part of the next phase to restore the building."

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