13 June, 2012
Eastbourne Bandstand reopened three weeks early on Friday, following essential maintenance to its main ring beam.
The temporary works mean the iconic seafront venue will now remain open for the rest of the season, with Wednesday’s 1812 nights, traditional afternoon concerts and Sunday Night on the Proms all continuing to be free of charge throughout June as a special gift to music fans.
From July onwards, all concerts will be ticketed once again, with Gilbert & Sullivan on Mondays, Kids Summertime Special on Tuesdays, Big Band nights on Thursdays and Rock n Roll Tributes on Saturdays all joining a packed programme for the summer.
Eastbourne Borough Council Cabinet Member for Tourism, Cllr Neil Stanley said “I am delighted we have been able to reopen earlier than planned. The temporary repair work means we can now enjoy an uninterrupted musical programme throughout the summer with the best music and a first class location.
There is still some further repair work to do at the end of the season, but by completing the work in stages we aim to reduce the inconvenience to our customers.”
Seafront visitors will also be able to view the recently restored plaque, dedicated to the Eastbourne bandsman John Wesley Woodward, who played in the Titanic orchestra and lost his life when the ship sank 100 years ago. The plaque was restored in time for the 100 year anniversary and can be viewed at the bandstand in the main arena.
The temporary bandstand closure came as a result of a routine bi-annual winter structural survey towards the end of 2011, which indicated some repair work to the steel ring beam above the stage. Works started early February, however further investigation revealed additional damage behind the masonry, requiring a full replacement of the beam.
The work is part of a planned programme of investment in Eastbourne’s historic landmark buildings which has identified those most in need of repair and refurbishment.
Eastbourne Bandstand undergoes a structural survey every 2 years as part of its licence agreement. The works to the 1930’s listed building are being carried out by East Sussex County Council in partnership with Eastbourne Borough Council and English Heritage.
For more information visit the Bandstand website, telephone 01323 410611 or visit the Seafront Office, 6 Lower Parade, Grand Parade, Eastbourne BN21 3AD, open 10am to 5pm each day.
