Plans approved to restore historic West Park bandstand in South Shields to its former glory - this is what's in store

Earlier this year, South Tyneside Council lodged an application with its own planning department for the Grade-II listed bandstand in West Park, off Stanhope Road.

The structure dates back to circa 1894 and was designed and made by James Allanson & Sons of Glasgow, according to listing information.

Following concerns about the deteriorating state of the bandstand, such as the roof covering, timbers and railings, the new works aim to safeguard it for future generations.

This includes minor roofing repairs, realigning and decorating the cornice and installing a new compass point to the weathervane.

Other works include wider painting and dressing / sanding / repairing the railings for decoration.

According to planning documents, the project would “extend the longevity of the structure and its elements” for an extra 40-60 years.

All works have also been designed to be “in keeping with the historic significance of the structure.”

Following consultation, listed building consent for the works was approved on Friday, April 16, 2021.

A council decision report reads: “The applicant has stated that it has been identified that the current state of West Park bandstand is having a detrimental effect on the structure’s elements, fixtures and features, namely the roof covering, timbers and balustrade (railings).

“Water has entered the structure and affected small sections of the timber ceiling.

“It has been stated that prolonged delays in restoration works taking place will accelerate harm and that the works would ensure the longevity of the structure.”

The Historic England listing for the bandstand states West Park was opened in 1894 in part of what was Brinkburn Dane.

The listing highlights the structure’s “slender cast iron columns” and “octagonal ogee shaped dome” alongside its “nice tall spikey weathervane” and “decorative” cast iron brackets and balustrade.

It also describes the bandstand as a “nice example of its genre” which is “now becoming rare.”

For the duration of the proposed works, a purpose-built scaffold will be erected around the bandstand and secured from ground level.

Access to the remainder of the park, where safe, will not be impeded.

For more information on the application, visit South Tyneside Council’s planning portal and search reference: ST/0146/21/LBC

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