New bandstand is safe despite cracks, charity says

The charity behind Dorking Bandstand says large cracks in its flooring which have developed since its opening in June are "cosmetic".

Alan Moore, who oversaw the build in Meadowbrook Park on behalf of the Pandemic Community Bandstand group, blamed extreme weather conditions for the damage.

He said severe rain when the concrete mixture for a lower layer was poured and intense heat as it set had caused it to shrink, which then cracked the thin screed surface.

Moore told BBC Radio Surrey the contractor was returning to fix the damage for free now the summer's music performances had ended.

The lower layer of concrete was poured in six parts and the cracks appeared in the top layer above each of the wooden beams between those sections, Moore said.

"We've known for some time there's a problem with that final topping screed," he added.

"One of the issues is we've had performances every weekend and it's only now after the performances have all finished that we can get the contractor back in."

Moore says when the new floor is fitted it will be filled with a sealant along the join lines so any future cracks will be stopped from damaging the flooring itself.

Work is also set to start on planting flowers around the bandstand and installing electricity in the structure.

The bandstand, which was built as a memorial to Covid-19 victims, cost £260,000 to construct.

It was paid for with donations, Community Infrastructure Levy funds from Mole Valley District Council, and a grant from Surrey County Council.

The design was inspired by an Edwardian bandstand which once stood in South Street, but was demolished in the 1960s.

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