Town exploring arts options after theatre closed

Redhill's Harlequin theatre has been closed for over a year after the discovery of Raac in the building

A council has said it is exploring options to deliver arts and cultural events in a Surrey town whilst a theatre building remains inaccessible.

The Harlequin theatre, in Redhill, has been closed since September 2023 when reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (Raac) was discovered.

A pop-up space hosting performances closed in September and the council has not committed to a new substitute venue in the run up to Christmas, meaning there are no plans for a pantomime in the area.

Richard Biggs, leader of Reigate & Banstead Borough Council, said: “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."

Councillor Biggs said the council had now received initial findings of a survey to investigate Raac which is "present throughout the auditorium roof and in the floors of some back of house areas".

He said: “We will receive further detailed analysis of the panels from specialists later this month.

"We will be meeting with the head leaseholder in early December, after which we plan to issue a further update.

A report on The Harlequin will be issued to the council's executive in January

A report will be issued to the council's executive in January.

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

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