PLANS for a bandstand on Watchet's Esplanade as part of a major revamp of the area have been scaled down, it was revealed yesterday (Thursday). West Somerset Council, which is leading the development, has withdrawn a scheme which had been due to go before the authority's planning committee. Corporate director Adrian Dyer told the Free Press that the proposed bandstand had only needed planning permission because it had been enlarged following consultation with local bands, keen to have additional storage space for chairs and musical instruments. However, he said officers and councillors involved in the Esplanade project had now taken on board objections raised about the size and design of the proposal and decided to press ahead with a more modest construction. "This will not need planning approval and will mean there will be no further delay to the overall enhancement project," said Mr Dyer. The bandstand now set to be built will retain the nautical-themed canopy roof, felt to be in keeping with the area, but will be a metre less in height and will have a reduced width. The changes follow a meeting with members of the Watchet Town and Royal British Legion bands on Wednesday night. Mr Dyer said officers were now hoping to be able to provide storage space for the musicians elsewhere on The Esplanade in order to maximise the performance area. The overall enhancement, which will be part- funded by European aid, is expected to be completed by May next year. The changes have received the backing of Watchet's three district councillors, Tony Knight, Jenny Hill and David Banks, who have been closely involved with the scheme. "Lessening the size will be more in keeping with other constructions on The Esplanade," said Cllr Knight. "Together with the nautical-themed structure, it will be complementary to the adjacent attractive marina with its modern yachts." Cllr Knight said local bandsmen had said that although the Watchet bandstand would be smaller than the one in Vivary Park in Taunton, it would be similar in size to that in Ilfracombe. "We are constantly being questioned by the public as to when the work will commence and we can understand their impatience. "This should now pave the way forward."