5 December update: Harlequin Theatre building, Redhill

Cllr Richard Biggs, Council Leader, provides the following update.

Theatre building

“The purpose of the intrusive survey report was to identify the level of risk associated with the reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) panels and potential remedial works required. Unfortunately, the report has shown that almost every panel in the flat roof, pitched roof and areas of the internal floor have been classified as ‘red’, which is a critical risk. This means that without significant remediation or removal of the RAAC panelling, the Harlequin must remain closed.

“It is important to point out that removal or rectification of RAAC will undoubtedly impact other elements of the building, such as the heating and ventilation systems, equipment and décor - meaning that we cannot consider the costs of the RAAC in isolation.

“I can now tell you that indicative costs are estimated to be in the region of £10 million to remove and remediate the RAAC and refurbish the theatre to bring it back into use. We are waiting on further analysis and itemised costs, but I wanted to share this headline figure with you.

“We are continuing to be in dialogue with the head leaseholder to work through the implications of the RAAC survey findings and respective responsibilities. We need to use public money appropriately.

Arts and culture whilst the theatre is inaccessible

“In tandem, we continue to actively explore interim options for art and culture provision and as part of that, we are working with a number of potential partners. We are assessing the options using feedback from the recent public engagement events, data about previous Harlequin usage, the ability of each option to host community and / or professional performances and the speed of potential delivery, as well as financial, equalities and environmental considerations. 

“We will be inviting previous hirers to engage with us in the coming weeks to revisit their previous requirements and explore the scope to adapt their needs in line with what the interim options may be able to offer.”

“I want to again reiterate our commitment to arts and culture in the borough. I understand frustrations with timelines – and we share your disappointment with not being able to access the theatre. We want to get back to being able to put on live performances and to providing a suitable space for all the fantastic arts and music groups all over the borough.

Next steps

All the information – both on the theatre building and the interim options – will form part of a report to the Council’s Executive in January 2025. At this meeting, all factors will be considered and next steps agreed.

For information about The Harlequin see our Harlequin Theatre & Cinema webpage.