Public have say on pavilion plans

Plans for the renovation of an East Durham landmark will go on show next week as part of a national celebration of history and culture.

Peterlee’s Apollo Pavilion is due to be returned to its former glory as part of a £400,000 project funded by District of Easington Council and the Heritage Lottery Fund.

The work will not be completed until spring 2009, but members of the public will be able to enjoy a sneak preview of the scheme on Saturday, 13 September, when the pavilion hosts a free exhibition and information day.

The event, which runs from noon until 4pm, has been organised as part of the national Heritage Open Days celebration.

Colin Robson, District of Easington Council Arts Officer, said: “Over the coming months, the pavilion is going to be the subject of major restoration work that will see it returned to its former glory.

“However, an important part of the project is ensuring it has a useful role within the community so during the Heritage Open Days event we will also be asking people how they would like to see the area used in the future.”

Representatives from the Apollo Pavilion Residents’ Steering Group and the design team working on the renovation will be attending the event to discuss the proposals and answer questions.

Built in the late 1960s, the pavilion was designed by renowned artist Victor Pasmore and is now recognised as an internationally significant public artwork.