A NEW Victorian style bandstand could be erected at Portishead Lake Grounds. The Portishead Tourism Group wants to put the bandstand at the top end of the Lake Grounds by the open air pool. A bandstand previously stood at the same spot, but was demolished

A NEW Victorian style bandstand could be erected at Portishead Lake Grounds.The Portishead Tourism Group wants to put the bandstand at the top end of the Lake Grounds by the open air pool.A bandstand previously stood at the same spot, but was demolished when the open air pool was built in 1961.The tourism group has already held early discussions with Lake Grounds residents after they raised concerns about the siting of a bandstand.Portishead Tourism Group chairman Bill Shiers said: "We are looking at erecting a small, Victorian bandstand which will fit in with the overall theme of the town."What we are doing is looking at replacing something which was once there and very much appreciated and used by people in the town."Mr Shiers said although there had been initial concerns about the siting of the bandstand from Lake Grounds residents, people in the town had welcomed the idea.He said: "At the flower show we had a tourism stall where pictures of the old bandstand and our plans for a new one were on show."We had many people say how they remembered the old bandstand and how they missed one being in the town."It is hoped the bandstand, which is estimated to cost around £19,000, would be used throughout the summer by local music groups.Funding for the project is expected to be sought from grant organisations and businesses.Mr Shier added: "Obviously plans are very much in the early stages and although we have talked to some residents, further consultation with the public will take place."We are very keen to get people's views on the idea of bringing a bandstand back to Portishead."Anyone who has a view on the bandstand plan can ring Mr Shier on 01275 817017.