Harlequin Theatre placed on national list of venues at risk of permanent closure

The Theatres Trust published its annual risk register on January 28 featuring 44 sites across the country that are threatened with closure due to “severe structural or safety issues, or redevelopment proposals”.

Redhill’s Harlequin Theatre, which closed about two years ago, after the discovery of dangerous crumbly concrete that could collapse without warning, has been added to that list.

Those hopeful it will reopen have suggested it could stay shut until 2030 while it awaits £10m of refurbishment work to clear it of dangerous crumbling concrete.

In a statement released by the trust, the Harlequin is described as a “popular multi-purpose theatre and arts venue located within the Warwick Quadrant Shopping Centre in Redhill.

“ It closed in September 2023 as a precaution following the discovery of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete.

“A detailed inspection has now indicated that the Harlequin contains significant amounts of RAAC within both flat and pitched roofs and within the floor.

“All are considered high risk, and the panels will require replacement.

“The work required is complicated by the theatre’s location within a shopping centre and initial estimates put the cost of the work at around £10m.”

Decisions on how to proceed with the theatre’s refurbishment work are due to take place at Reigate and Banstead Borough Council’s January 30 executive meeting.

Council leaders are being asked to support community hirers with alternative rehearsal and performance spaces, support the expansion of existing arts subject to annual budget approval, as well as maintaining the Harlequin’s £360,000 net revenue budget next year.

It is also expected to agree to allocate up to £10 million for the Harlequin Theatre refurbishment work and cultural offering in the borough.

The council is to receive further reports on the future of the Harlequin within the Warwick Quadrant in June 2025.

Papers published ahead of the meeting say the council will be seeking budget approval to appoint a design team to work up costed plans, as well as hold discussions with the head leaseholder of the Warwick Quadrant to agree costs, responsibilities and a timeline for any project.

A detailed feasibility report for a 200 seater theatre in Redhill, which could cater for commercial and community hirers, is also expected in June.

The Theatres at Risk Register began in 2006, and in that time more than 80 theatres have been restored, revived, or had suitable replacements built.