Hackney London Borough Council
Hackney London Borough Council
04/03/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 04/03/2025 00:00
Kings Hall Leisure Centre transformation moves step closer
Hackney,
03
April
2025
|
06:51
Europe/London
Kings Hall Leisure Centre transformation moves step closer
The return of the historic Kings Hall Leisure Centre in Clapton to its full glory has moved a step closer after major plans to revamp the facility received planning approval.
The changes, approved by the Council's planning sub-committee on Wednesday night (2 April), will safeguard the 1890s Victorian bath house's heritage while creating a modern leisure centre including a refurbished pool and alongside a brand new teaching pool with a moveable floor.
The upgraded leisure centre will also host a new sauna, steam room and changing facilities, a fitness suite, a two-court sports hall and a new accessible entrance from Clapton Square.
The plans were developed by FaulknerBrowns Architects, who designed Hackney Council's award-winning Britannia Leisure Centre, and incorporates input from more than 250 local residents and leisure centre users.
Kings Hall is the only leisure facility serving residents in the east of Hackney. However the important social and historical landmark and Grade II listed building has deteriorated significantly in recent years, resulting in rising repair costs and worsening facilities for users.
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Over generations, thousands of people have learnt to swim or use the gym at Kings Hall, and it has been difficult to see such a beautiful building deteriorate as it has aged.
Despite challenging financial times, it is right that we're investing to bring the leisure centre back to its full glory - protecting a historic building for future generations, but more importantly providing modern leisure facilities that our communities deserve in a part of Hackney that is currently underserved.
Caroline Woodley, Mayor of Hackney
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The Council will now look to appoint a contractor to deliver the plans this autumn. Subject to a contractor being appointed, work is expected to start in late 2025 and complete in late 2028.
The work needed to safeguard and improve the building means that the centre would need to close while work takes place. Members will be able to transfer their membership to another Better Leisure Centre in Hackney, and the Council is also exploring whether it can provide temporary health and fitness facilities in another venue in the east of the borough during the closure.
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