Repairs set to start on Raac-impacted theatre roof

Work to replace a theatre roof at risk of collapse due to it being built with a cheap concrete that crumbles is due to start on Monday.

Scaffolding will be put up at the Key Theatre in Peterborough, with full renovations taking place after The Searchers & Hollies Experience show on 1 June.

Peterborough City Council, which owns the building, has allocated £2.19m for the works. The first show following re-opening is due to be 'An Evening Without Kate Bush' on 9 October.

The Chalkboard Cafe and Kindred Drama located in the building are due to remain open throughout the work.

Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete, known as Raac, was found in the auditorium roof in 2023.

A temporary roof structure costing £192,000 was installed so events could continue while a permanent solution was sought.

Mohammed Jamil, Labour deputy leader and cabinet member for finance and corporate governance at the council, said: "I am delighted that work is starting on this vital project, which will ensure that this much-loved theatre can continue to operate.

"As with any major scheme, this will result in some disruption - in this case a short closure of the venue. However, once completed, it will ensure that the theatre can continue to provide a vibrant cultural offering for Peterborough residents."

Follow Peterborough news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.