Seafront bandstand to host music and weddings

A bandstand is to be built on a Victorian seaside promenade to host live music and wedding ceremonies.

The hexagonal structure will be constructed on Weymouth Esplanade opposite the Royal Hotel, next to the American War Memorial.

The blue and white shelter will be supported by a timber deck built over part of the beach, level with the access ramp.

Dorset Council approved a planning application by Weymouth Borough Council and construction will begin in early 2027.

During a consultation, Weymouth Civic Society raised concerns the structure would be too small for a brass band, would attract antisocial behaviour and was too close to the war memorial.

At a planning committee meeting on Thursday, vice-chairman Neil Eysenck described the plans as "a nice attractive addition to Weymouth seafront with echoes of how it used to look".

Weymouth Town Council said it was "delighted" the application had been approved.

In a statement published on social media, it said: "The development of this exciting new structure is due to start in early 2027, with the completed bandstand providing an attractive location for live music and theatre performances, as well as a venue for wedding ceremonies."

Weymouth also has a bandstand at nearby Greenhill Gardens which hosts concerts throughout the summer.