Paralympics poster girl Ellie Simmonds popped in to Ironmonger Row Baths on Friday to add some star quality to the relaunch of the renovated complex.
The four-time gold medallist – who wowed the nation with her performances in the pool this summer – was guest of honour at a special reopening that also saw the mayor in attendance.
The baths, built in a Grade II listed building just off Old St, have been shut since May 2010 when a £16m project to modernise the facilities was undertaken, and the discovery of rare medieval tiles on the site last year delayed the work.
Now the venue is finally ready to reopen its doors for the public, and has managed to keep its historic feel.
Alongside the installation of a modern gym and exercise studio, the main pool and traditional Turkish baths have been fully restored.
Janet Burgess, the executive member for health and wellbeing on Islington Council, said: “The new-look Ironmonger Row Baths is an exceptional place for residents to swim, exercise and relax, and a lasting legacy of this Olympic year.”
The complex has been reserved this week for local schools and community groups only; it opens to the public this Saturday.
