Lloyd Rees Bandstand is Falling into Disrepair

By
ITC1
-

The Lloyd Rees Bandstand or Rotunda is a Lane Cove icon. You may or may not be aware that the heritage status and location with the Lane Cove Plaza has been hotly debated over the years. It is not listed on the Lane Cove Heritage List.

History

The bandstand was built in 1983. It’s one of the last bandstands/rotundas to be built in NSW. One of Australia’s most notable artists Lloyd Rees lived in Northwood for many years and prompted its design. He also made a financial contribution towards the construction of the bandstand. It was designed by Harry Howard a noted Sydney Architect.

Lloyd Rees - sourceGarry Stanley Jane Rothschild Dr. Edward Higginbotham
Lloyd Rees – source Garry Stanley Jane Rothschild
Dr. Edward Higginbotham Heritage Report June 2009

When the bandstand was constructed it was applauded for its use of tensioned stainless steel and modern polyester fabrics.

The Bandstand is the focal point of the Lane Cove Plaza. How many times have you met people on or near the bandstand? It has been the location of numerous local music concerts, speeches, gathering and events since its construction (most recently the Lane Cove Australian Day Citizenship Ceremony).

plaza

It has been modified since its construction and its location slightly moved, but the core feature of the bandstand remains the same – the stainless steel and the material covering.

Lack of Maintenance

However today ITC spotted this gaping hole in the covering. The covering should be updated or cleaned on a regular basis.

bandstand

Why is the Band Stand Not on the Lane Cove Heritage List?

This leads to the question – why is the bandstand not on the Lane Cove Heritage List? Over the years the matter has come before the Lane Cove Council. In 2008 there was an outcry when the bandstand was not included in the Lane Cove Plaza redevelopment plans. In 2009 the Lane Cove Council tabled a Heritage Report prepared by Dickson Rothschild Heritage Report (May 2009) which noted that the bandstand is regarded as historically, aesthetically and socially significant for Lane Cove.

So what do you think?  Should the Lloyd Rees Bandstand be on the Heritage Register?

Do you have a local issue you would like help with? ITC is here to help just email us at [email protected]