Theatre with Racc set to get council compensation

A new roof is being installed at the Key Theatre in Peterborough

A council plans to pay compensation to a theatre company forced to close after reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (Raac) was found in its roof two years ago.

The Key Theatre in Peterborough is currently undergoing £2.19m of repairs, but due to unforeseen "complexities" with the work, the venue's reopening has been delayed until the new year

As a result, Landmark Theatres, the operator of the Key Theatre, has had to move its pantomime to a different venue.

Peterborough City Council agreed to cover the company's losses, subject to approval from the cabinet on 2 October.

Landmark Theatres, which operates the venue under a lease agreement with the council, has been forced to relocate or delay planned performances, including moving the 2025 Jack and the Beanstalk pantomime to the New Theatre on Broadway, which it also operates.

Compensation payment to the company will be made from council reserves, but the amount has not been made public, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

A city council cabinet report states: "This business loss payment ensures the continued delivery of Peterborough's cultural programme despite the capital works at the Key Theatre.

"It supports the sustainability of theatre operations, maintains public confidence and upholds the city's reputation as a destination for high-quality performing arts."

Last month, Paul Jepson, creative director of Landmark Theatres, said: "Whilst we are delighted to confirm that our much-loved annual pantomime and festive programme will go ahead as planned, albeit at a different location, some other scheduled productions will sadly need to be cancelled or rescheduled.

"All affected customers will be contacted in the coming week with full details, including options for exchanges or refunds."