Repairs start on Grade II listed bandstand

Plans to repair the bandstand in Roker Park were approved a year ago

Repairs have started on a Victorian bandstand which has been fenced off for years.

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

Work to bring it back to its former glory were approved last year.

David Laws, who has lived in the area for 40 years, said he "almost had a tear" in his eye when he saw scaffolding going up on Thursday.

"I was over the moon," the 76-year-old said.

How the bandstand looked more than a decade ago

Mr Laws said he remembered brass bands playing at the bandstand on Sundays.

"I felt disgusted that it was being left to go to rack and ruin and not being looked after," he said.

"It's part of our heritage. It should be looked after and passed on to the next generation."

The bandstand dates back to 1880 and is recognised for a range of features, including its ornamental railings and central cupola.

The restoration is part of plans to re-open the area to the public

Sunderland City Council said repairs will help make the most of the area, with other improvements - including restoring the boating lake and a new cafe - also being made at the park.

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

Kevin Johnston, cabinet member for housing, regeneration and business, said: "The work on the repair, restoration and conservation of the bandstand and former park keeper's lodge will allow us to complete the current £1.6m regeneration of Roker Park, as well as helping to make the most of the area around the historic bandstand and maximise its use as a performance space."

It has not been confirmed when the work to the bandstand will be finished.