Raac closure theatre will not reopen before 2025

The Orchard Theatre closed in September due to fears over dangerous concrete

A Kent theatre which was closed due to fears over dangerous concrete will not reopen until early 2025.

The Orchard Theatre in Dartford shut last September as it has reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (Raac) in its roof.

A theatre spokesperson said that "whilst roof replacement works are progressing well" the "reinstatement of technical equipment and wider works" means it will not be ready by the end of September, as initially hoped.

Some forthcoming shows will transfer to a temporary auditorium, Orchard West, which was built to house shows after the closure.

Other shows will have to be rescheduled or cancelled, a spokesperson said.

Ticket holders have been asked by the venue to wait to be contacted by them.

It is expected that Dartford's pantomime will now be hosted at the temporary venue for the second year running.

The spokesperson said: "We thank you for your continued support."