Update: Harlequin Theatre, Redhill and arts and cultural provision

Building update

“We have now received initial findings of the intrusive survey to further investigate the reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (‘RAAC’), which is present throughout the auditorium roof and in the floors of some back of house areas. It looked at the level of risk in relation to defects, deterioration, modification and water damage to the RAAC panels, as well as how well the panels are situated on their supporting steel structure, in line with The Institution of Structural Engineers guidance (PDF).

“We will receive further detailed analysis of the panels from specialists later this month. The intrusive RAAC survey was jointly commissioned with the head leaseholder of the building. Together, we have a lot of information to review to agree next steps and our ongoing discussions with them will continue to be a critical part of future planning. We will be meeting with the head leaseholder in early December, after which we plan to issue a further update.

“Given the building is now 40 years old, the Council also commissioned a full building condition survey and expect the results in early December 2024.

“Once we’ve received all the reports and before decisions can be taken, Councillors and the building’s head leaseholder will need the opportunity to consider the scale, costs and implications of all the findings. These will form part of a report to the Council’s Executive in January 2025.”

Arts and cultural provision whilst the theatre building remains inaccessible

Cllr Biggs continued: “In parallel with the building investigations, we are developing proposals for arts and cultural opportunities we could provide in the borough whilst we cannot access the building.         

“The engagement activities we held in October were an important part of this work and I’m pleased to confirm we have published the results on our website. Key feedback included the importance of the Redhill location, of providing facilities for both professional and community performances, and concerns regarding the impact of the current situation on the local resident and business community.

“Thank you to the 160 people who attended the events and to the 600 people who completed a questionnaire to share their views on arts and cultural aspirations. These results will also form part of the report provided to the Council’s Executive in January - to help us make informed decisions and agree next steps.

“We acknowledge there are some frustrations with timelines, but we are working proactively to gather full evidence and information to enable an informed decision. 

“In the meantime, I would like to reiterate our commitment to arts and cultural provision in the borough and thank our community for their continued interest.”

For information see the Harlequin Theatre & Cinema webpage.