A £5m (US$6.5m, €5.8m) proposal to reopen Turkish baths in Newcastle, UK, has moved a step closer with the council approving planning permission.

Charity Fusion Lifestyle is behind the project, which will see the baths and pool re-established in the north-east city by 2018. The venue will be kitted out with new health and wellbeing facilities, a spa and bistro cafe.

Work is expected to begin in early 2017 to transform the Grade II listed building following the green light from Newcastle City Council.

Local architecture firm Napper Architects have been appointed to work on the project.

“As well as the pool and Turkish baths, there will be a range of health and wellbeing facilities including fitness facilities, exercise studios and treatment rooms,” said chief executive of Fusion, Peter Kay.

Nick Forbes, leader of Newcastle City Council, added: “We worked hard to ensure this city landmark has a bright future, and I welcome this important milestone.”