‘David Bowie Bandstand’ to receive £250k restoration
By Tara O’Connor, Local Democracy Reporter
An Edwardian bandstand in Beckenham where David Bowie performed could soon be restored to its former glory.
Plans for the £250,000 project have been submitted by Bromley council.
In 1969, Bowie helped organise and play at the one-day Growth Summer Festival in Croydon Recreation Ground. It is known to some as the ‘Bowie Bandstand’.
It was built in around 1905 and given Grade II listed status in 2019. A planning application outlines the proposed work which would include fixing its intricate ironwork and restoring the original dark brown colour.
After years of fundraising a refurbished bandstand could be ready next summer.
Bromley Councillor, Aisha Cuthbert, said: “We are hopeful that we may soon be able to move ahead with this project. A massive thank you to everyone who has supported this project, including the crucial financial support.”
More than £80,000 of the total cost has been raised by community funding, including the Bowie’s Beckenham Oddity fundraising concert which has happened most years since 2016.
Other money has been raised through the sale of bricks for the bandstand which will be engraved with the purchaser’s name.
Chris Phillips, chairman of the Friends of Croydon Road Recreation Ground said: “The interest in the bandstand has understandably been sustained for many years and has received global attention and it is the work and support of so many that has enabled this exciting project to get to this point.
“The recreation ground has something for everyone and is a hub of activity for young and old.”
The plans were submitted by Bromley council which owns the bandstand. It has appointed Purcell to be the architect on the project.
Public consultation on the plan closes on Wednesday and if approved work could start in early 2023 and be completed the same summer.
It would be closed while the work was carried out.
Pictured top: The bandstand in Croydon Road Recreation Ground, Beckenham (Picture: Bromley council)
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