Still time to have your say on future of Overtoun Park bandstand
The people of Rutherglen are having their say about the future of the B-listed Overtoun Park bandstand.
And the majority of those who have responded so far have made clear their hopes that the historic structure can once again emerge as 'a revitalised and sustainable landmark'.
Destroyed by fire in June 2024, the Victorian bandstand is to be restored and repaired thanks to a £300,000 budget commitment by South Lanarkshire Council.
As part of a detailed update report on the project, this week's Community and Enterprise Resources Committee was given a timeline which could see the bandstand returned to its former glory in time for the Royal Burgh's 900th anniversary celebrations in 2026.
The report also outlined an intention to submit an application to Historic Environment Scotland for a grant of up to a further £100,000.
Explained chair of the committee, Councillor Robert Brown: 'While the council has committed £300,000 toward the project, the scale of work required to repair the damage, including specialist materials and conservation expertise, is expected to exceed that amount.
'Council officers will need to work closely with heritage experts and conservation specialists to guide the repair process, with detailed assessments being carried out to identify and retain all historically significant elements.
'Additional funding will, therefore, be necessary to deliver a project that not only meets the conservation standards required to protect and preserve the structure's character and heritage but also realises the community's aspirations for it.
'Both the council and Rutherglen 900 (the group organising the celebration marking the town's 900th year as royal burgh) are keen to see the Bandstand restored – but we also regard it as important that it is used as an active performance and events area by the community.'
The public consultation exercise was launched in June and will remain open until Friday, August 29, to ensure as many local people as possible can take part.
Paper copies can be completed at Rutherglen Town Hall and Rutherglen Library, where a QR code giving access to an online version can also be scanned. The survey can also be accessed via the council website.
Comments and views submitted will be taken into account as officers and heritage professionals draw up the final restoration plan.
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