London-based architects Watkins Gray International's plans for the regeneration of the historic Camberwell Baths in London have been given the green light by the local authority.

The London Borough of Southwark has approved planning consent for the first phase of a £3m scheme to overhaul the Grade II-listed baths, which will include repairs to the pool and sports hall and major upgrade works. Facilities at the refurbished 4,000sq m (43,056sq ft) complex will include a café, a crèche, office space and youth areas, such as a youth music centre, as well as a new entrance hall and new lifts.

The plans also include retaining Camberwell Baths' original frontage, although one entrance will close to create a single main entrance. Shop spaces within the existing glazed partitions of the entrance will be created and modern changing areas introduced. Roy Caddick, a partner at Watkins Gray International, said: "Camberwell Baths is an historic and characterful building, and should provide an important health and fitness service in a relatively deprived area of London. Unfortunately, the facility has been in a poor state of repair, and in order to safeguard its future, certain upgrades will be vital.

"The refurbishment of the baths will improve access, enhance public spaces and upgrade the mechanical systems which serve the facility. Overall the works will greatly improve the experience for all end users and the baths will once again be a facility that the community is proud to use." Construction work is expected to be completed in 2010, which will form part of the London Borough of Southwark's efforts to increase participation among children and maximise the potential of the government's free swimming scheme.