Local community activist and Horley Conservative Deputy Chairman Political Taylor O'Driscoll shares his thoughts on the news that Reigate and Banstead Borough Council has agreed to fund the reopening of the Harlequin Theatre in Redhill.
While not in Dorking & Horley constituency, the Harlequin Theatre is an important venue for arts and culture in Reigate & Banstead, and Horley, Salfords and Sidlow especially. So when Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) was found in the roof, it was problematic for local arts groups. While the Borough Council under the stewardship of Cllr Richard Biggs, Leader of the Borough Council (and Horley Conservative Councillor), did a great job ensuring the panto went ahead in 2023, it's clear funding was needed to reopen the Harlequin.
So why was RAAC in the roof an issue? To explain this, we need to explain what RAAC is. It's a lightweight form of precast concrete used in buildings from the 1950s to the 1990s, particularly for flat roofs. However, its not as durable as traditional concrete, and can weaken over time, particularly when exposed to moisture (such as rainfall). This means that the roof could collapse without any visible signs of distress, which is a huge safety concern.
Therefore, getting it removed is a key priority.
I think it's wonderful news that a £4.5million funding package has been agreed by Reigate & Banstead Borough Council. It means that the RAAC can be removed from the roof, and the theatre can reopen soon, which will be good for Horley and Eastern Surrey more widely. Many people from Horley visit the Harlequin, including to see the popular annual panto, concerts, comedy nights and other plays.
I'd like to particularly thank Cllr Shelly Newton, Reigate & Banstead's Executive Member for Leisure and Culture, for her work in presenting the funding plan and getting the councillors to agree to the plan. I also want to pay tribute to the Harlequin Support Group for their dogged campaigning to get Reigate & Banstead Borough Council to reopen the Harlequin. Without their determination in bringing this to the council's attention and Cllr Newton's work, I don't think we'd be seeing the Harlequin reopen anytime soon.
This positive story shows that Conservative-led councils can be caring and can have their community's best interests at heart. And that is something to recognise and shout about at every opportunity.
