Scope of Works
Manchester’s Harpurhey Baths is a Grade II listed building that once stood as a significant example of Edwardian public architecture. Designed by the renowned city architect John Henry Price in 1909-1910, the baths were part of Manchester’s efforts to provide high-quality public facilities in the early 20th century. Despite its historical and architectural importance, the building suffered from extensive neglect since its closure in 2001, leading to severe structural issues. Cracks in the baths walls had widened and developed defects, further exacerbating the building’s instability.
A portion of the baths site had already been redeveloped to accommodate the ‘North Manchester Sixth Form College’ and ‘North City Library.’ The final phase focused on transforming the remaining site and restoring the front facade of the Grade II listed building to its former grandeur.
As part of the project, the main pool was converted into an exhibition space and meeting hall. John Walker of Walker Simpson Architects expressed his vision prior to the restoration, stating, “It would be great to give the building a new lease of life and open it up so it can be used by the community again.”
Bullen Conservation was appointed as a specialist contractor for terracotta and structural masonry repairs, tasked with executing high-profile, sensitive restoration work with meticulous attention to detail. Our scope of work included the complete manufacture and replacement of defective terracotta blocks, supplied by Shaws of Darwen, along with comprehensive hydraulic lime repointing and delicate facade cleaning.
Extensive dismantling and rebuilding were carried out on the high-level arched pediment gables of the front elevation, utilizing salvaged materials. Additionally, structural masonry repairs were undertaken across the site, both internally and externally, including the creation of new large structural openings.
The project was successfully delivered to the satisfaction of the architect and design team, meeting their vision for the exterior, as reflected in the accompanying photographs.
