Artwork set for £300,000 revamp

The Apollo Pavilion was built in the late 1960s

An piece of public art that was constructed in County Durham is to undergo a £336,000 revamp.

The Apollo Pavilion was created by abstract artist Victor Pasmore and built in Peterlee in the late 1960s.

It was refused listed status by the government, and has been plagued by problems like vandalism and graffiti.

The Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) cash will allow the work to be restored to its original design and the surrounding area landscaped.

Mr Pasmore, who died in 1988, produced experimental housing plans for Peterlee in the early 1960s and became involved in the design of the pavilion after the original architect withdrew.

Secured legacy

Named after the Apollo space mission, the pavilion was constructed to symbolise post-war simplicity and harmony.

The restoration will include the replacement of a staircase to allow access to the upper level, and full restoration of two original Pasmore murals including feature lighting.

Dr Keith Bartlett, head of the HLF in the North East, said: "Following strong support from local people for the revival of the Apollo Pavilion as a valuable feature of Peterlee's local heritage, the building is now set to become an historical architectural centrepiece of the North East once again."

Easington District Council welcomed the cash aware as "excellent news."

Mr Pasmore's son, John, said: "The restoration will represent a landmark achievement in helping to secure the legacy of my father's work in Peterlee, to which he was dedicated for so long."

Work is due to start in November and is scheduled to take six months to complete.