Listed former swimming baths building put on the market

The former St James’ Baths in Doncaster’s Civic and Cultural Quarter is being made available to developers and commercial operators.

Doncaster Council is looking for interested parties with appropriate business plans for rejuvenating the prominent 1930s building to express their interest.

Located next to the new Savoy cinema and restaurant complex, which will be open in spring 2020, and the Doncaster University Technical College which is scheduled to open in September 2020, the building enjoys a prime site in the town centre.

Peter Dale, director of economy and environment, said: “Although in need of investment, the building is exceptionally well positioned in our town centre and could be turned into various uses by the right investor or developer.

“Doncaster’s town centre is benefiting from a comprehensive regeneration programme with a raft of major projects being delivered as part of our Urban Centre Masterplan. This means there are great opportunities to be had in Doncaster and the wider borough.

“It would be tremendous news for this much loved building if we can find someone with the suitable expertise and business idea to bring it back to life.”

The Grade II Listed building officially opened in 1932. Its swimming pool hall was designed so it could be converted into a concert and dance venue.

During the winter months, the pool was covered with a sprung maple floor enabling the hall to hold about 1,500 people. With a stage at one end and a projection box for films, the building was used as a venue for many performers including the Beatles who played a gig in the 1960s.

It also included Turkish and Russian baths in the basement with mosaic floor and wall tiling and a drinking fountain. The original baths remain largely as they were when built over 80 years ago.

Any interested parties should contact the council’s Strategic Asset Management team on 01302 737405 or email: samgen@doncaster.gov.uk

The property will be marketed through various other channels, including Rightmove.

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