Parr Fold Park bandstand ( Friends of Parr Fold Park, 2025)

Funds have been raised to revive one of Salford’s last remaining bandstands.

A crowdfunding effort by the community group Friends of Parr Fold Park, Walkden, raised more than £3,000 in donations to pay for the restoration of one of only two remaining bandstands in the City.

Built in the 1930s, Parr Fold Park bandstand has fallen into disrepair following years of neglect. But with the donations from the Walkden community group being matched by Salford City Council, it is hoped the historic structure will be given a new lease of life.

The Friends of Parr Fold Park launched a crowdfunder earlier this month to fund urgent repairs to the bandstand.

The group hopes to raise £7,000 in total by December, which will be match-funded by Salford City Council, doubling the impact of every donation.

Funds raised will go towards repairing the bandstand’s roof and base, repainting the structure, and potentially reinstating its power supply – allowing it to once again host community events, performances, and cultural activities.

>Deborah, a member of the campaign group, said: “It was the Mayor, Paul Dennett, who suggested we try a crowd funder.”

“There are only two bandstands left in Salford – the other one in Victoria Park, Swinton, which has already been repaired and restored.”

She added: “For a lot of people, the bandstand stirs memories because it used to be a regular thing on Sundays in summer there used tote a brass band but in the future we can get it used more.”

Formed in 2015, the Friends of Parr Fold Park is made up of local volunteers who work to improve the park’s environment and facilities. The group holds weekly gardening sessions and organises free community events throughout the year.

Deborah said the response from the local community has been overwhelming: “We’re really grateful for the support from local residents and the council — it’s shown how much people care about the park and its history.”

The group hopes that this initial restoration will be the first step towards a full refurbishment of the bandstand in the future, returning it to its place as a community focal point at the heart of Walkden.

To support the fundraiser, visit the Friends of Parr Fold Park crowdfunder page.

 

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