Former baths on most-endangered list

A Grade II listed former washhouse has been placed on a list of the 10-most endangered buildings in the UK.

Gibson Street Baths, in Newcastle, opened in the early 20th Century but the property was most recently used as a badminton club and has stood vacant since 2016.

The Victorian Society, which has compiled the list, described the building as having "unique historical and community significance".

Newcastle City Council put it on the market in 2017, but its sale fell through.

Thomas Ollivier, the society's northern conservation adviser, said community baths were once common but fell out of favour rapidly as living standards began to rise.

"Post-Second World War, people started to get indoor loos and baths as standard, although not everywhere.

"The bit that really stands out are the tiles in the interior. They're so quintessentially early 20th Century.

"They're stunning and include pictures of mermaids, divers and even a water polo match.

"All the swimwear is striped as obviously that's what people wore then. It's very much of its time."

Each building on the society's newly issued list was nominated by members of the public.

While repairs may well be costly, Mr Ollivier said he believed they would be worthwhile.

"It's difficult because each one is so different. Structurally, the Gibson Street Baths building is useable. It needs some love and care.

"The aim isn't necessarily to preserve it as historically as possible. We do understand times and community needs change, so it's about finding a future that preserves the character but has use.

"The building is at a crossroads. If nothing happens, its condition will get worse."

A council spokesperson said several bids were received when the property was put on the market.

They added: "A preferred bidder was chosen but unfortunately was unable to access the funds needed to bring it back into use.

"We recognise this is an historically important building and want to see it saved and brought back into use and so will look to market it again in the near future."

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