Approval is being sought at the next Executive meeting for work to be carried out to address the existence of Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) at Camberley Theatre.
The proposal aims to rectify the condition of the RAAC at Camberley Theatre, and ensure the theatre continues to offer a vibrant arts and cultural hub within Surrey Heath.
Chief Executive of Surrey Heath Borough Council Damian Roberts said: “We appreciate the importance of Camberley Theatre as an arts and cultural hub in our borough, and the financial contribution it makes to the town centre and our local economy.
“While specialists confirmed last year that the RAAC present in the theatre did not present an immediate risk, it is important that in the longer term it is dealt with to keep the theatre open, so it continues to play its key role in the cultural life of residents and visitors to the venue.”
In September 2023, RAAC was identified in Camberley Theatre in several locations including the bar, main stairwell, plant room, dance studio, stage, and changing rooms.
A specialist company confirmed the RAAC did not present an immediate risk, and further detailed surveys are taking place to identify how best to deal with this in a way that would minimise future disruption to activities at the Theatre.
To better understand the extent of the works required, it is being recommended that the theatre should close for three weeks to allow removal of suspended ceilings in several areas.
The safety of customers and staff remains the council’s top priority, and key areas of the theatre are reassessed on a regular basis to determine whether there has been any deterioration in the RAAC. This is not a long-term solution, as any significant deterioration could result in the closure of the theatre.
This is why the Executive will be considering proposals to undertake the work required to deal with the RAAC as soon as possible to ensure that, once completed, the theatre can reopen.
This provides the lowest short-term cost whilst sustaining the cultural, social and economic benefit of the venue.
It is proposed the remedial works are scheduled during this summer (2024) when the impact on the theatre programme and regular hires would be at its lowest. It is expected that the Ian Goodchild Centre, which is immediately adjacent to the Theatre, will remain open throughout the period of the inspections and remedial works.
This limits the financial cost to the council and increases the likelihood of regular hires returning swiftly once the theatre reopens.
All existing hires and performances impacted by the proposed closures are being rescheduled for dates when the theatre is expected to reopen.