The graffiti-covered remains of the former Speedwell Swimming Baths will be demolished to make way for 31 affordable homes.

Abandoned for more than a decade, the historic Whitefield Road building that was once at the heart of the community has fallen into a dilapidated state and been branded a “dangerous eyesore”.

Now Crossman Homes intend to breathe fresh life into the site after signing a deal with Yarlington Housing Group, which secured grant funding from Bristol City Council for the project.

Support

independent journalism Bristol24/7 relies on your support to remain independent. If you like what we do and you want us to keep reporting, become a member for just £45 for the year Join now

This follows two unsuccessful attempts to regenerate the plot over the last 13 years. The proposed five-storey building will provide a mixture of one and two-bedroom apartments.

Built in 1937, Speedwell Swimming Pool closed in 2005 when the council deemed it surplus to requirements and put it on the market.

Residents have rallied to have the art deco building restored to its former glory and retained for community use, but developers say that very little of the original interior exists, making repairs an unrealistic prospect.

Brad Hughes, of Crossman Homes said: “We are delighted to be leading this exciting development which will provide much-needed social housing for the area.

“The site has been vacant since 2005 and has become a dangerous eyesore, attracting anti-social behaviour which has been a real concern to the local community.”

He confirmed that work on the development is expected to start early this year.

Welcoming the plans, Paul Smith, the council’s cabinet member for housing, said: “The Speedwell Swimming Pool site was sold in 2006, so I am pleased to see it is finally being developed. It is important that we make the best use of land across the city and not allow sites to be left empty for too long.

“There was initially only going to be four affordable properties on this site, so this is another great example of how our grant funding can help support the construction of more affordable housing, which will be available for those who need it most.”

Wyn Bevan, of Yarlington Housing Group, added: “As disused, existing developed land we are able to deliver much needed homes and help solve the city’s housing need without putting pressure on an expanding city.”

Read more: 11 Bristol landmarks ready for redevelopment