BRACKNELL Bandstand cannot be relocated because of asbestos, say regeneration bosses.

The 40-year-old town centre landmark has been hoarded off since the middle of July and it is expected to be demolished within the next few weeks.

Helen Barnett, marketing manager at the Bracknell Regeneration Partnership (BRP), said: "Over the weekend our demolition contractors, Scudders, undertook a survey of the bandstand with a view to taking it down this week.

"The survey revealed that like many other structures built in the 1950s and 1960s, the bandstand contains asbestos. While it is safely encapsulated, and therefore of no danger to the public, this does means that it will have to be demolished by a specialist team over the coming weeks. Unfortunately, it is just not possible to relocate it." Residents and councillors alike have been trying to save the Bandstand, which was built mid-1973 and cost about �9,000.

The first performances, in September and October 1973, were by Reading Salvation Army and the newly-formed Bracknell Concert Band.

Cllr Chris Turrell, leader of Bracknell Town Council, does not want to see the historic icon pulled down, but explained: "While the bandstand is owned by Bracknell Town Council, BRP has offered to demolish the structure safely, and dispose of all hazardous material. In light of the survey, we have decided to allow the contractor to go ahead with this work.

"The bandstand has served the community well and it will be sad to see it go. But we look forward to the new town centre - and a focal point to continue the work the bandstand has done so well." A painting of the Bandstand, entitled 'The Last Stand', by former ReOrsa artist Janet Curley Cannon, was donated to Bracknell Town Council in 2009.

A limited edition print has been produced and 75 copies will be sold for the Bracknell Town Mayor's charities: Holy Trinity Church and Bracknell Rugby Club. Copies are available from the council offices, in Brooke House, High Street, for �40. Call 01344 420079.