Bandstand set for repairs after plans approved

The bandstand has been fenced off since the summer of 2021

A historic bandstand which has been fenced off for three years is set to be restored after repair plans were approved.

The Grade II listed structure, in Sunderland's Roker Park, was closed for safety reasons in 2021.

The repair works were approved on Monday and are part of plans to open the 144-year-old bandstand to the public again.

A project to restore it was previously pushed back because of other developments at the park, including a cafe and water features.

Back in early 2023, plans were also approved for amphitheatre seating near the bandstand to restore it to be being the "beating heart of the park once again", the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

Conservative councillor Michael Dixon welcomed the plan but said he was "disappointed" at the current condition of the structure.

Than bandstand dates back to about 1880

According to planning documents, parts of the bandstand had corroded and there were "signs of rot to the timbers of the roof".

Mr Dixon said: "Bearing in mind that it’s a listed building, it’s very disappointing that it was allowed to get into a dilapidated condition, especially as Roker Park is such a wonderful park.

"That said, I’m very happy to support the application and I’m very pleased that at last work is being done."

Labour councillor Stephen Foster added: "I’m glad to see the application has finally arrived, because it’s been going on far too long."