Council committed to Eastbourne Bandstand improvements

The leader of Eastbourne Borough Council has confirmed they are 'fully committed' to finding the best way forward with partners to ensure Eastbourne Bandstand can reopen for summer 2026.

Plans to carry out urgent safety works are currently under review with statutory consultees Historic England and Twentieth Century Society. 

Councillor Stephen Holt, Leader of Eastbourne Borough Council, said:

"We are fully committed to making sure the Bandstand is safe and ready to welcome residents and visitors next summer.

"It is a treasured landmark and we recognise the importance of conserving its historic character, which is why we won't deviate from working collaboratively with all partners to achieve that goal.

"And at a time when we don't receive any funding from government to preserve the Bandstand, we have still managed to earmark £1.2 million in the capital programme, including over £700,000 for this latest phase of work, and this all follows the millions we have spent previously."

Structural engineering reports highlight instability in two of the supporting colonnades, which could worsen during winter storms. 

Historic England and the council are exploring non-destructive load testing to ensure that the terraces and shelters can continue to be used safely while awaiting further works.

Alma Howell, Inspector of Historic Buildings and Areas at Historic England, said:

"Over the last decade, Historic England has worked closely with Eastbourne Borough Council on various sites, including the refurbished Grade 2* listed Congress Theatre, and recognises its strong commitment to maintain and develop its local heritage.

"We also note its funding commitment to the Bandstand and the complexity of working with an exposed coastal site.

"We want to work in partnership with the council once again to help deliver a long-term, heritage led solution and to look at developing a funding strategy that will keep the iconic Bandstand operating safely and entertaining many thousands of people for many years to come."

Conservation Architects, Ecotecture and Principal, Jo Saady, were selected for the Bandstand project. Jo Saady is a Specialist Advisor to the Conservation Advisory Group (CAG), a Design Consultee for the South Downs National Park (SDNP), and serves as both a Trustee and the South East Branch Chair of the Institute of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC).

Jo Saady said:

"Safety works at Eastbourne Bandstand are essential to protect the public.

"The measures prioritise safety, minimise impact on the historic structure, and ensure the Bandstand's cultural significance and community use are preserved, while providing time to plan for its long-term conservation."