Theatre shuts over fears crumbling concrete ceiling could collapse during show

07 September 2023 , 13:44

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The Forum Theatre has temporarily closed following concrete fears (Image: Men Media)

A theatre has been forced to close its doors over fears that a crumbling ceiling could collapse on audience members.

The Forum Theatre in Romiley, Greater Manchester, announced that it would be cancelling shows due to the presence of Reinforced Aerated Autoclave Concrete (RAAC) within their building structure.

NK Theatre Arts and Stockport Council said they decided to take the "precautionary measure" following updated government guidance. The statement revealed that the existence of RAAC at the 400-seat theatre has been known since 2017 and had been "managed in accordance with industry standards."

The theatre will remain closed while "further investigations" are carried out following the news of more than 100 schools and colleges having to fully or partially close.

In a joint statement they said: "As a precautionary measure and to ensure the safety of our staff, performers and visitors, we have taken the decision to close the theatre to the public in line with Government guidance to undertake further investigations. This approach is also being taken by other theatres and performance spaces as you may have seen in the press. We realise this will be very disappointing to our patrons and our performers but our priority is to make sure the building is safe."

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Shows scheduled for this week included Cats in Space Kickstart The Sun Tour, The Elton John Show and K27 does Disney, reports Manchester Evening News. It becomes the latest in a number of other theatres across the country which have closed their doors as a result of the crisis. "Anyone who has purchased tickets for immediate events impacted will be contacted by the box office with information on refunds or alternative dates should performances be rescheduled," the statement continued. "We are in the process of contacting producers to discuss the implications for them."

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Chris Slater