Bandstand revamp plans submitted

The plans include a restaurant on the grandstand's ground floor

Brighton's derelict seafront bandstand could once again stage open-air concerts after an £850,000 restoration.

A planning application has been submitted to Brighton and Hove council to restore the Victorian structure and improve the surrounding area.

The ground floor and basement of the 1884 Grade II listed building would be changed from public toilets and a storage area into a restaurant.

If it is approved, work could start this summer and be finished next year.

The project is to be funded by the city council, with income generated by letting the restaurant premises.

"Restoration of the bandstand is a priority for this council so it is wonderful news that an application has now been submitted," said environment councillor Geoffrey Theobald.

"The bandstand is of historic and cultural importance to our city and much loved by our residents, so we are looking forward to returning this jewel in the seafront crown back to its former glory."