A SOLIHULL theatre has been forced to close its doors after dangerous concrete was identified in the building.
Solihull Council said it reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC), which is prone to collapse was identified at The Core earlier this year following a routine inspection.
The Council said it as a precautionary measure it had taken the decision to close the theatre to continue investigations.
The council added it had been working in line with guidance issued by The Institution of Structural Engineers since April.
In a statement the Council said: “We realise this will be very disappointing to our patrons and our performers, but unfortunately there is no other option.
“Anyone holding a ticket for Coleshill Operatic society – Little Shop of Horrors will be contacted by the box office to arrange a refund.
“We will be contacting the organisers of other shows to discuss the implications for them.”
RAAC is a lightweight material and was used in roofs, floors and walls between the 1950s and 1990s.
It was used as a cheaper alternative to standard concrete, but has a limited lifespan of around 30 years.
The Health and Safety Executive has said RAAC is now beyond its lifespan and may “collapse with little or no notice”.
In a statement the Council added: “Following the updated guidance on RAAC for schools last week, we have done a further assessment of all corporate buildings and found no other sites that require any action.”
Solihull Council said it will issue a further update next week.
