Taking the plunge - Marshall Street Baths now open! - Closed since 1997, but now reopened after £25m refit

JOHN Major was Prime Minister, Princess Diana was still alive and the internet was a great big mystery.

Not since 1997 have swimmers taken a dip in Marshall Street Baths in Soho.

But that all changed on Monday when the iconic Victorian swimming pools reopened after a £25million refurbishment.

Sue Hudson, one of the founding members of the Friends of Marshall Street, said: “This swimming pool is not only a beautiful building, it also plays a vital role in the health and welfare of the whole community, for people of all ages and 

fitness. 
 

“It is fantastic that the pool is being returned to public use – that has always been one of the major aims of our campaign.”

The Grade-II listed building – which has had a pool on the site since 1850 – can now be taken off English Heritage’s Buildings at Risk register.

The revamp maintains many of its original 1930s features, including the original white Sicilian marble-lined pool with its green Swedish marble walls

An original bronze fountain depicting a merchild and two dolphins and designed by the sculptor Walter Gilbert has also been restored.
 

There is also a purpose-built leisure centre with gyms, a sauna and health suite and dedicated dance and exercise studios.

The original Westminster Public Baths contained a first and second-class swimming bath, a child welfare centre, public laundry and public washing facilities.
 

The work has been carried out by Westminster City Council and its development partner Marshall Street Regeneration.

Cllr Steve Summers, lead member for community services, said: “This is not only a wonderful new leisure facility for local residents but also a great legacy for the local area and for future generations to enjoy.”

Funding the scheme has been possible as part of a wider regeneration 

programme which includes building 52 new homes, 15 of which are part of an affordable housing scheme.