Duthie Park bandstand to be restored

01/08/08

Work is to be undertaken to restore a deteriorating Granite City landmark.

Aberdeen City Council’s Urgent Business Committee this afternoon voted in favour of providing a one-off payment of £15,000 from the City Improvement Fund for restorative works to the Duthie Park bandstand.

Deterioration is evident in the structure of the bandstand, which is an original feature of the park. The structure is listed as being of special architectural or historic importance.

The restorative works will be carried out in time for the celebration of the park’s 125th anniversary, on 14 September this year.

A report to the committee states: “Failure to fund these works will allow this unique and historic structure to decline in safety and appearance. Owners of listed buildings have a responsibility to ensure that they do not fall into disrepair.

“By undertaking restorative works to the bandstand the city council is setting an example of good stewardship of its historic assets.”

There is evidence of corrosion on metal brackets supporting the bandstand roof, and a decorative panel is missing.

The bandstand is a major feature in the Duthie Park. It is used for marriage ceremonies and musical events at least once every weekend. It is also used to promote the city as a tourist destination.
The restorative works will involve exactly matching the existing colour scheme of the bandstand. Specialist paints matching the original colour scheme and which will help the structure to withstand the extremes of temperature and exposure year-round, are to be used.

If you have any queries regarding this, or any other news story, please contact Aberdeen City Council on: 01224 522000.