Preston Guild Hall: Crumbling Raac concrete found in roof

Preston City Council says it is "exploring the options" to open the hall's foyer as a temporary venue

Crumbling concrete has been found in roof panels at Preston Guild Hall and Charter Theatre, the council has said.

Both venues, closed since 2019, were due to open soon but will remain shut until the repairs have been assessed.

Schools and other public sector buildings have been affected by the discovery of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (Raac).

The council said it is "exploring the options" to open the hall's foyer to host smaller events.

Preston City Council leader, councillor Matthew Brown, said the news of Raac being found was "disappointing but not unexpected".

He said: "We now need to find the best solution and the funds to rectify the problem.

"Our safety first approach remains a priority and we are proceeding with caution.

Upgrade work, which has included the installation of new signage, has been ongoing at the venue

"Alongside our own disappointment, we understand the disappointment of residents and we share their frustrations at not being able to progress this quicker." Other repair works being carried out in the building include upgrades to the fire sprinkler system and fire doors and additional roofing repairs, the council says.

Ground floor trading units and the Harris Library remain open inside the building.

The Guild Hall and Charter Theatre opened in 1973.

Over the years, it hosted major snooker events and the likes of Queen and David Bowie performed there before it was shut in May 2019.

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