THE temporary moving of Southend's famous bandstand to Priory Park is set to be completed by the beginning of summer.

Southend Council says £60,000 has been put aside in the budget for CCTV cameras to protect the iconic structure from yobs and vandals.

The bandstand has been out of use since 2002, when it was moved amid safety fears after a landslip on the Cliffs.

David Garston, councillor responsible for culture, said he was delighted the landmark was being brought back to life.

However, he stressed the move to Priory Park was only a temporary one, until the money could be found to carry out repair work needed on the cliffs.

Mr Garston said: "I was in Priory Park at the weekend and the area where the bandstand will be has been cleared. I hope it will be in place as soon as possible.

"We have £60,000 in the budget to pay for CCTV cameras to protect the bandstand, as well as cover the cost of three new park wardens we are employing.

"The problem will be during the night rather than the day, as it is close to the cafe and will be in an area of the park which is regularly used.

"The council is also planning two in-house events to be staged there during the summer, but at the moment no details have been finalised.

"I think it is likely Southend Boys' and Girls' choirs will be involved, and other groups within the town. There are lots of possibilities available and they will be developed as soon as we can."

Mr Garston stressed the bandstand would be back as close to its original location as soon as possible.

He said: "I am determined to ensure the bandstand is returned somewhere as near as possible to its original position in the future.

"When I took over the culture portfolio I was determined to find a suitable place for the bandstand in the short term. Priory Park was the best alternative available."