City theatre with Raac could get new roof in 2025

The Key Theatre, in Peterborough, was shut temporarily last year after Raac was found in the roof

A city theatre where crumbling concrete was discovered could get a new roof next year, a council has said.

Reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (Raac) was found in the roof of the auditorium at the Key Theatre, in Peterborough, in 2023.

The 400-seat venue was shut while a temporary roof was installed, which cost the city council - the building's owner - about £200,000.

Now the council has submitted a planning application for a new, permanent replacement. If approved, work could take place in the summer of 2025, a council spokesperson said.

A temporary roof, costing £196,000, was installed last year - in time for the pantomime season

'Hairline cracks'

The Key Theatre, built in 1973, is run by Landmark Theatres.

The temporary roof meant the theatre could stage performances, but Peterborough City Council had said it was "working on a long-term solution".

Pick Everard, a consultancy, has been appointed principal designer for the project, which includes the removal of Raac planks.

According to a planning submission, an "inspection at Key Theatre revealed hairline cracks on the surface of several roof planks".

The council is also seeking permission for work to improve the theatre's energy efficiency, including installing solar panels.

The planning application, submitted this week, will now be considered by councillors.