Eastbourne residents launch petition to save the bandstand

Last week it was reported that the bandstand will remain closed this year.

The site is advertised as ‘the busiest bandstand in the UK’.

Residents raised worries for the future of the site, with people arguing it has been neglected so is now a health and safety problem.

Eastbourne residents have now come together to form an action group to save the attraction.

The group has also set up a petition which has already reached nearly 2,000 signatures.

This week (February 5–6) between 11am-2pm at the upper tier of the bandstand the action group will be around for members of the public to come and share their views, join the group, and sign the petition.

On February 17 there will also be a public meeting at The Cumberland Hotel at 7pm.

Conservative councillors have also been criticising Eastbourne Borough Council for not carrying out the work needed when it was shut due to covid.

Councillor Robert Smart, Conservative group leader, said, “As Eastbourne can open up its tourist facilities for 2022 the iconic bandstand in its central location will lay idle as a lifeless monument. Sadly it will no longer be the UK’s busiest bandstand.”

A Eastbourne Borough Council spokesperson said, “Subject to cabinet approval in February, we will soon begin a £750,000 project to repair the stage area and parts of the main structure. We have been very clear that a temporary closure is required during this time.

“We look forward to welcoming audiences back to the bandstand when this essential work is completed.

“Bandstand shows are continuing at the Welcome Building and proving extremely popular with residents and visitors to the town.”

Sign the petition here