New bandstand in Aberystwyth officially opened

The old bandstand building within the original perimeter wall was subsequently demolished and, with financial help from the Welsh Government, a new contemporary, purpose-designed £1.2 million bandstand and seawall erected in its place.

Built in an art deco style in 1935 and periodically updated during the 1960’s, 70’s and 80’s, the much-loved old bandstand served Aberystwyth well, becoming a focal point for the community by hosting local musical performances, dances and other events. The modern facilities offered by the new bandstand, designed by the Council’s in-house architects, will allow that tradition to be continued and enhanced for the community in Aberystwyth.

The new bandstand follows a contemporary design, with glazed front to draw visitors into the building and internal multi-purpose performance space with flexible internal units that can be adapted for different uses. A distinctive dual height circular standing seam zinc roof, with high level aluminium-framed windows. A new glazed clay block insulated cavity wall that wraps around the building, with LED feature lighting in a shadow detail above, to highlight the circular roof form.

Rear folding sliding windows facing the sea provide panoramic views of Cardigan Bay and when opened together with the front folding sliding doors, the space is transformed into a semi traditional open sided bandstand allowing both beach and promenade users to enjoy musical performances.

Councillor Ellen ap Gwynn, Leader of Ceredigion County Council, said: “I’m grateful to the Welsh Government for their funding support to this project through the Aberystwyth Regeneration Initiative. The new bandstand’s design has fitted very well into the Aberystwyth townscape, housing a contemporary performance space that is well placed to continue to provide enriching experiences for tourists and local residents alike.”

Carl Sargeant, Cabinet Secretary for Communities and Children, said: “I am delighted to mark the official opening of the Aberystwyth Bandstand. I visited here twice in 2014 in the aftermath of the January storms. The storms devastated the Promenade and made the headlines across the world.  It is fantastic to return and be part of such a positive event and marking the resilience of the community.

I am pleased the Welsh Government has been able to contribute £571,000 of Regeneration funding towards this project. This is an important scheme made possible as a result of strong partnership working between the Welsh Government, the local authority and the wider community.”