Harlequin Theatre & Cinema

An intrusive survey was undertaken to identify the level of risk associated with the reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) panels and potential remedial works required. 

Unfortunately, the report showed that almost every panel in the flat roof, pitched roof and areas of the internal floor have been classified as ‘red’, which is a critical risk. This means that without significant remediation or removal of the RAAC panelling, the Harlequin must remain closed. 

The survey, which was jointly commissioned with the head leaseholder, looked at the level of risk in relation to defects, deterioration, modification and water damage to the RAAC panels, as well as how well the panels are situated on their supporting steel structure. It was carried out in line with The Institution of Structural Engineers guidance.

On 19 June 2025, the Council's Executive agreed that we will move forward with removing the RAAC (rather than mediating it). This will clearly impact other elements of the building, such as the heating and ventilation systems, equipment and décor - meaning that we cannot consider the costs of the RAAC in isolation.

Indicative costs to remove the RAAC and undertake essential works to enable the theatre to safely reopen at previous capacity are expected to be around £4.5 million. Full Council will be asked for its approval to allocate this money from Council reserves on 22 July 2025.

A tender process for this work is the next step.

RAAC survey background

The RAAC intrusive surveys were undertaken in line with The Institution of Structural Engineers Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) Investigation and Assessment Further Guidance (PDF), which looks at:

• Cracks, spalling (deterioration) or other defects to the soffit (ends) of the planks
• Possible water ingress coming from above the roof liner
• Penetrations through the planks (e.g. due to pipes)
• End bearing length (portion of the panels sitting on the steel beams)
• Presence of transverse (cross-ways) reinforcement over the bearings (steel beams)
• Any modifications or non-standard planks.