Repairs on Roker Park's Grade II-listed bandstand begin
"I was over the moon," the 76-year-old said.
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.
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.
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