Building record MDR24088 - Former Langwith Pit Baths, Kitchener Terrace, Langwith

Former Langwith Pit Baths, Kitchener Terrace, Langwith, built in 1931. An historic building survey was carried out in 2023 in advance of the proposed demolition of this significant and rare example of local and regional working class history. The survey concluded: 'The Langwith Colliery Pithead Baths, were constructed in an Art deco style in 1931, being only the second of such facilities to be built in Derbyshire and subsequently ceased to function for their original purpose in 1978 when the colliery closed. Between 1978 and 2020 the property had been used for mixed industrial and retail purposes, primarily relating to the motor vehicle trade, but with one other strong business of a DIY store. The change in use meant substantial changes to the property, such as, the introduction of large industrial doorways and stud walls in the south wing. Many other doors and windows had also been blocked up, while others had been created. It was also discovered that substantial changes were made to the property whilst it was still in use as the Pithead Baths, i.e., the division of both large locker rooms to create a Time Office and Lamp Room. A front extension was added to house a larger First Aid facility. The years in which these changes were made is uncertain but is believed to be after 1947. An apparent brick constructed cycle shed has also long since been demolished. The last few years have not treated the building kindly and it has been left in a dilapidated condition with many of the large industrial doors missing and the rows of roof lights being stolen, which has enabled natural elements to take their toll on the building. ...much of the original fabric and features have been destroyed or lost, including such things as water pipes, wiring, electrical and plumbing fittings, and ventilation systems. Neither were there any artefacts found relating to the building’s original purpose and the only items discovered that connected the building to the more recent activities were scrap… This building played a key role in the community of mining families…' (1)