The grant will be used to restore the Apollo Pavilion
The Apollo Pavilion, and its surrounding landscape in Peterlee, is to be restored to its former grandeur as an iconic example of 1960s architecture.
The Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) has awarded a grant of £336,000 (77%) to fund the work and return the building to the community.
Situated in Sunny Blunts Park, the Apollo Pavilion was built in the late 1960s as a collaboration between internationally renowned artist Victor Pasmore, and local town planners developing the town of Peterlee. Named after the Apollo space mission, it was constructed to symbolise post-war simplicity and harmony.
In recent years the Pavilion has had a chequered history, sadly becoming victim to scenes of anti-social behaviour and prompting the community to campaign for its restoration.
Dr Keith Bartlett, Head of the Heritage Lottery Fund for the North
East, said “Following strong support from local people for the revival
of the Apollo Pavilion as a valuable feature of Peterlee’s local heritage, the building is now set to become an historical architectural centrepiece of the North East once again.
"It is truly a 1960s design icon and the Heritage Lottery Fund is delighted that it will now be preserved for future generations, whilst enjoying new and innovative uses that will add value to the lives of the community.”
Parts of the structure and its architectural features will be restored to the
original design, including reinstating the Pavilion within its landscape setting. In addition, Sunny Blunts Park will receive a major facelift, being re-cobbled and reed beds added to the West End lake to the original design.
Commenting on the award, Councillor Joan Freak, Executive Member for Social Inclusion and Culture, District of Easington Council, said: "This award
from the Heritage Lottery Fund is excellent news. Refurbishment of the
Pavilion, together with the landscaping of the area, will provide a
boost to the regeneration of this part of Peterlee and enhance its role
as a tourist destination.”
The restoration of the Apollo Pavilion has been campaigned for since
2002. Work is due to start in November and is scheduled to take six
months to complete.
