The Motherwell Concert Hall and Theatre is set to be demolished after a recent inspection revealed significant damage caused by Reinforced Aerated Autoclaved Concrete (RAAC).

The inspection, conducted in September 2023, found that 95% of the roof area was affected by RAAC, a lightweight concrete often used in construction between the 1950s and 1990s. This type of concrete is known to be weaker than traditional concrete and can pose a serious risk to structural integrity.

The demolition of the historic building is a significant loss for the local community.

Councillor Jim Logue, Leader of the Council, explained: "Several of the RAAC panels showed damage, including signs of water ingress that could weaken the roof's load-bearing capacity.

-- Advertisement --

"The building has been closed since September last year on safety grounds, with most of the programmed shows and performances relocated to Airdrie Town Hall, Ravenscraig Regional Sports Facility and other venues.

"We have explored all the options and have concluded that removal of the RAAC and replacing the roof would cost a minimum of between £10.5 and £11.65 million and likely considerably more.

"I recognise the huge part that the concert hall and theatre have played in the cultural life of Motherwell and North Lanarkshire over many years, and I have attended many wonderful performances in the building.

"However, demolishing the theatre and concert hall is the only economically viable option. This has been an incredibly difficult decision.

"Culture has a huge part to play in people's lives, which is why we have agreed that options will be considered in the future, including cultural facilities as part of the approved Ravenscraig Hub.

"In the meantime, we will continue to use the excellent facilities at Airdrie Town Hall to programme as many shows as possible, and the hugely popular pantomime will continue to have a home at Ravenscraig."

Members of the policy and strategy committee agreed to the decision at a meeting on Thursday, 5 December 2024.