Theatre safe to operate as Raac work is carried out

The theatre is due to close between August and November for works to take place

A theatre is to remain open for the full summer season after its future was threatened by crumbly concrete.

Reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (Raac) was found inside Camberley Theatre last year after Surrey Heath Borough Council ordered safety checks across its buildings.

The theatre was closed in April temporarily for building inspections.

But now experts have ruled it safe for the theatre to remain open while preparation work is carried out for work that will take place later on this year.

The theatre will close from August until November whilst the works costing £175,000 are carried out.

John Skipper, Surrey Heath Borough Council's portfolio holder for leisure and culture, said: “The safety of customers and staff remains the council’s top priority, and specialist surveyors have confirmed it is safe for the theatre to stay open while we prepare for the planned future works to deal with the Raac."

The Ian Goodchild Centre, which is immediately adjacent to the theatre, is expected to remain open throughout any approved remedial works later this year, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

All existing hires and performances impacted by the proposed closures are being rescheduled for dates when the theatre is expected to reopen.

Those with tickets within the closure period are being advised they can either move their booking or get a refund.

Follow BBC Surrey on Facebook, on X. Send your story ideas to [e-mail] or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.