Uplifting makeover for Queen's Park bandstand

The iconic bandstand in Queen’s Park, Heywood has had a rainbow themed makeover.

In July this year, the Friends of Queen’s Park community group unveiled the new makeover of the well-loved bandstand, in collaboration with local artists Toni Lane and Victoria Ash.

With a large rainbow and floral mural hand painted on the bandstand, this Heywood community space has had a positive reaction from local people.

Friends of Queen’s Park chairperson Ellen Yates explained how they first came up with the idea:

"At one of our monthly meetings, we discussed giving the bandstand a face lift because it was looking drab and dreary. We agreed we could give the building a facelift making an attractive effect ready for the opening of lockdown. I asked for permission from the council and it was agreed that we could go ahead.

"Because our park is so loved by so many people it was decided that we would put it to the people who use and love the park to offer us their help. The suggestion of a rainbow kept coming up repeatedly and we agreed it would make a beautiful feature.

"Two local artists (Toni & Victoria) hand painted the rainbow and the meadow of flowers, giving their time for free. People really got behind our project and donated towards the cost because we're a voluntary group and rely on donations.

"The response was overwhelming as word spread across our community and people came to the park to watch the work progress."

As well as having a beautiful new mural on the bandstand, the community group also decided to include a John Lennon Wall inspired area for children to decorate. The John Lennon Wall is an iconic street art welcomed wall in Prague, Czech Republic.

Ellen explained: "We wanted to give the children a section which is theirs; to give them some ownership and responsibility to protect the bandstand from vandalism."

On 25th July, the park welcomed bands and local families to a Grand Opening event to celebrate the new makeover.

Ellen said: "It was a lovely sunny day and it was wonderful to see so many families sitting on the grass enjoying the day!"

If you are interested in booking the bandstand for a performance you can get in touch with the Friends of Queen’s Park on Facebook or contact the council.

Lucy Fieldhouse - Community Arts Writer