The Core Theatre in Solihull shuts its doors due to RAAC concrete

The Core Theatre in Solihull has temporarily closed its doors over fears of RAAC concrete.

Several theatres in England have shut their doors due to the unsafe concrete, joining hundreds of schools across the country which have had to close as they were built with concrete that now puts buildings at ‘risk of collapse’.

More than 100 schools in England have been found to be at risk as they have been built with reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) - a material which was used to construct schools, colleges, and other buildings between the 1960s to 1990s, and which only has a life expectancy of around three decades.

Solihull Council identified the presence of RAAC in the Core Theatre earlier this year following an inspection. The council says it has taken the decision to close the theatre as a precautionary measure.

Those who have tickets for the Coleshill Operatic society – Little Shop of Horrors show at the theatre will be contacted by the box office to arrange a refund.

Statement from Solihull Council

A spokesman for the council, said: “Solihull Council identified the presence of RAAC in our Core Theatre earlier this year following a routine inspection.

“We have been working in line with the most up-to date guidance issued by The Institution of Structural Engineers from April 2023 to assess its condition.

“As a precautionary measure, we have taken the decision to close the theatre to continue our investigations. The issue is isolated to the theatre itself. The rest of The Core building is not affected and is open as usual.

“We realise this will be very disappointing to our patrons and our performers, but unfortunately there is no other option.”