Locals want clarification on when Redhill theatre will reopen 1000 days after closure
It is now more than 1,000 days since the at-risk Harlequin Theatre closed its doors due to RAAC
It is now more than 1,000 days since the at-risk Harlequin Theatre closed its doors due to dangerous crumbly RAAC concrete and campaigners are demanding action getting it reopened.
The East Surrey Green Party has published an open letter saying the closure has hurt town centre footfall and cost £2.5 million in lost revenue, based on Redhill Business Guild estimates.
Backed by signatories including Dame Judi Dench, Reigate Summer Festival, and the Harlequin Support Group, the letter calls on Reigate and Banstead Borough Council to publish what work still needs to be done, give key milestones and target dates, reasons for the delays, and an expected reopening date.
Disappointingly for the group, the council is only able to say it hopes work will begin in November this year – and not how long it will take.
The council has said the timescale was less a delay and more due to the complexity of work required.
The letter reads: “Residents have been repeatedly assured that progress was being made.
“We were told construction would begin by June 2026.
“We were told the Harlequin would host a Christmas show in 2026.
“Those commitments have not been met, and the public still has no clear explanation as to when the theatre will reopen.”
The Harlequin remains on the at-risk register by the Theatres Trust as the troubles over repairing the decaying roof continue to keep its doors locked.
East Surrey Councillor Elly Heato (Green Party: Redhill West and Meadvale) said: “The Harlequin has always been much more than an entertainment venue.
“It brings people together, supports local businesses, and gives Redhill a sense of identity and pride. After nearly three years of closure, local businesses have lost an estimated £2.5 million in trade, and residents deserve greater transparency about what happens next.
“Publishing a detailed reopening timeline would be an important first step towards rebuilding trust and demonstrating that the Harlequin remains a priority for the area.”
Reigate Borough Councillor, Mark Smith (Independent: Redhill West and Wray Common) added: “The people of Redhill are still waiting for a clear plan.
“This isn’t just about a theatre; it’s about confidence in our town centre, support for local businesses, and keeping promises made to residents.
“We are simply asking the council leader to publish a detailed timetable for reopening by July 22 so everyone can see exactly where the project stands and when this vital community asset will return.”
The council has said that reopening The Harlequin Theatre at its original capacity remains one of its highest priorities and that it has made substantial progress behind the scenes.
They said the project remains complex with many moving parts – and partners.
Since autumn it has been working with the Bailey Partnership, and more recently and Apex Contractors design and prep work to remove RAAC and replace the roof.
It is now also replacing the air handling system and two large windows, necessary to bring the building back into operation. This extra work, the council said has impacted the project timeline.
Current estimates are that work will begin in November, if Apex Contractors’ tender is accepted by the council.
Reigate and Banstead Borough Council leader, Councillor Richard Biggs said: “We understand and empathise with the frustration around timescales.
“Our priority is ensuring the work is completed safely, lawfully and in a way that secures the long-term future of the theatre, including continued access for local community groups.
“In parallel, we are in negotiations with our preferred operator to run the venue, which should lead to an exciting announcement once all the contracts have been signed.”
There is £7.5 million approved for the project including £3 million for planned maintenance works such as air handling units and window replacements.