Dartford Council Leader Reflects on ‘Traumatic’ Theatre Closure Due to Raac

A Kent local authority has affirmed its dedication to reopening a theatre it owns, which was shut down over concerns about hazardous concrete. The Orchard Theatre in Dartford ceased operations in September 2023 after reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (Raac) was identified in its roof. The venue announced in September that some shows would be cancelled or rescheduled up to at least May 2025. Jeremy Kite, the leader of Dartford Borough Council, stated: “When we had to close the Orchard it was a big trauma for us.” He described the theatre as “at the heart of our community” and a “civilising influence on the town.” Mr. Kite commented: “We didn’t have anything planned. We didn’t have any contractors in place, so we’ve had to work incredibly hard to get everything set up.” Since 2023, certain performances have been moved to Orchard West, a temporary auditorium constructed to host productions following the closure. While an early 2025 reopening was initially hoped for, Mr. Kite emphasized that “the planned closure was for up to two years and we’re not there yet.” Mr. Kite remarked: “It is heart-breaking to see other towns lose their theatres. “And we were determined to see that didn’t happen here. “It’s such an important thing. Delivering services for people is what we do.” Council figures indicate that pubs, restaurants, and clubs collectively benefit from approximately £5 million per year in night-time trade generated by the theatre. Mr. Kite characterized the £7 million the council has committed so far for repairs to the theatre roof and other venue improvements as “money well spent.”