Council approves funding for Raac affected theatre

The theatre had to close in April after Raac was discovered

A Surrey council has approved additional funding to make Camberley Theatre safe for "years ahead" after Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (Raac) was discovered.

The theatre had to close in April after Raac, a lightweight material used as a cheaper alternative to concrete, was found.

Surrey Heath Borough Council had previously agreed to fund £175,000 of exploratory work.

Councillor Morgan Rise, portfolio holder for net zero, environment & leisure, said: "After extensive investigation by building engineers on potential solutions, I’m pleased that we have the go ahead to make safe the RAAC in the theatre into the future."

The council hopes the theatre will be fully functional again by November, ahead of the Christmas pantomime season, so remedial works will proceed from August.

The pantomime season is a large source of income for the theatre, said the council.

Mr Rise added: "It’s widely recognised that Camberley Theatre positively impacts and influences local businesses and the overall economy.

"Ensuring a safe, welcoming and fun environment at Camberley Theatre underscores our commitment to preserving and encouraging the arts and cultural heritage in Surrey Heath."