RAAC concrete found in roof of Preston's Guild Hall

Crumbling RAAC concrete has been found in the roof of the Guild Hall in preston.

Specialist engineers have made the discovery after an inspection in the roof panels of the Grand Hall and Charter Theatre Venues.

The council say preliminary works will now be carried out, before specialist engineers can do an investigative sampling of the roof panels.

Councillor Matthew Brown, Leader of Preston City Council, said, “The news that the Guild Hall venues both have RAAC in the roof is disappointing but not unexpected. We now need to find the best solution and the funds to rectify the problem.

"Our ‘safety first’ approach remains a priority and we are proceeding with caution. Alongside our own disappointment, we understand the disappointment of residents and we share their frustrations at not being able to progress this quicker with a view to a longer term solution for the Guild Hall as a functioning venue, but it’s out of our control."

Council teams are exploring the options to open the foyer space in the Guild Hall as a temporary, independent venue that can host some smaller events throughout the year, up to the capacity of approx. 500.

The remainder of the Guild Hall, including the ground floor trading units and the Harris library remain open for business.