HARLOW Council has reached a major milestone in its ambitious plan to rebuild the iconic Town Park Bandstand, with the appointment of a contractor to carry out the reconstruction.

This marks the fourth step in the council’s detailed eight-step plan to restore the bandstand following the devastating fire earlier this year. With the site cleared, a specialist architect appointed, and community engagement well underway, the appointment of a contractor signals the transition from planning to delivery.

The contractor, Hill Group, will now work closely with the architect and council teams to develop detailed designs that honour the bandstand’s heritage while ensuring it meets modern standards for accessibility, durability, and event hosting.

The remaining steps in the plan include finalising the design, securing planning permission, beginning construction, and celebrating the reopening with a special launch event next year.

Councillor Dan Swords, Leader of Harlow Council, said:

“The morning after the fire, I promised that we would rebuild the iconic bandstand ready for major events next summer – and we are delivering on that promise. We have today completed the fourth step in our eight-step plan to rebuild the bandstand with the appointment of the contractor.

“I hope that this action is demonstrating our commitment to creating a new bandstand that honours Harlow’s heritage while providing a modern space for future generations to enjoy.

“I want to thank all residents who have already given their views which we are using to shape the new design, from those who attended the sessions, or have filled in our online survey. We really are working at pace to ensure that our community comes together next summer to celebrate major events in our new bandstand.”

Drop-in sessions were held last week for residents to give their views on the rebuilding. An online survey is also running which can be seen here.