Turkish baths building ‘of national importance’ set to be turned into flats

A former Turkish baths in Bolton deemed a building ‘of national importance’ could be converted into flats. Plans have been submitted the ground and first floor of the building on Great Moor Street into three apartments.

The building, most recently used as offices, is currently vacant. A heritage report attached to the proposals goes into detail about the history of the ornately fronted property.

It said: “It was originally constructed as a Turkish Bath dating from 1891 and designed by architects Stones in Gradwell. The baths closed in the early 1980s and the removal of the bathing elements of the building followed in subsequent planning applications for alterations.

“The current use of the property is offices. The building is listed at grade II and features as a key building within the Bolton town centre.

“It has a symmetrical and acclaimed aesthetic appearance to its front elevation. Internally, it has been substantially altered with any remains of the Turkish baths long gone.”

A design and access statement by Bolton based applicants SRA Investments, said: “In order to avoid making significant external alterations to the existing building and mindful of the listed status of the premises, access points to the property will not change as a result of the proposals.

“The only access to the building is via the main entrance door directly off Great Moor Street. Re-use of existing buildings in Bolton is vitally important and w ill assist with the overall regeneration of the town centre.”

The heritage report states that Turkish baths were first introduced in the UK in the early 19th century for reasons of health and sanitation. It adds: “By the mid to late 19th century baths and wash houses were widespread and many were promoted and supported by local corporations.

“By the late 19th early 20th century there were more than 800 baths in the UK.” Planners in Bolton will consider the change of use application in the coming weeks.