Latest Update on the Abbey Hall

As previously announced, the Town Council had planned to close the Abbey Hall in September 2025 for a major refurbishment. However, preliminary scoping works have revealed the unknown fact that when it was built in the 1960’s part of the roof was constructed with RAAC (reinforced aerated autoclave concrete), a form of cheap, lightweight concrete that has a limited lifespan of about 30 years and is susceptible to structural failure. The Council has notified the tenant (the operator of Abbey Cinema) of its concerns that the structural integrity of the building must be checked to ensure the safety of the public. The Council therefore in consultation with the tenant has brought in specialists to examine the roof and to advise what mitigation measures might be required. Unfortunately, this survey has also revealed that low grade asbestos was also used in the construction of the roof, which adds to the complexity of the issue. The Council are keeping the Abbey Cinema fully informed of developments and greatly regrets any inconvenience that the closure of the Hall will cause to the Abbey Cinema itself and to all who use it. The Council will be working with the tenant and its consultants and contractors to ensure any closure is for as short a period as is reasonably possible.