
Annual register of theatres under threat of permanent closure, redevelopment, or demolition across the UK.
Theatres Trust, the charity that campaigns to protect the UK’s theatres, has published its annual Theatres at Risk Register, which highlights theatres across the UK under threat of closure, redevelopment or severe decay, but which all have the potential to be revived for their local communities with the right support. This year’s list comprises 43 buildings, which all have strong architectural merit, cultural heritage or value to the local community as a performance venue.
Theatres Trust has added five more theatres to the list, all local authority owned, mid to small scale venues located outside of major cities. Oswaldtwistle Civic Arts Centre and Theatre and Prince of Wales Theatre in Cannock are both at risk due to pressures on local authority budgets, leading to councils seeking savings by closing their theatres, cuts in subsidy and/or a lack of ability to pay for crucial maintenance and repair work.
The other three new additions, The Brunton in Musselburgh, The Harlequin in Redhill and Motherwell Concert Hall and Theatre are all theatres that have been closed for more than a year due to the presence of the crumbling concrete Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC). The Bruton and Motherwell Concert Hall and Theatre have been recommended for demolition due to the high costs of repairs, and a decision on the future of The Harlequin is imminent.
Now in its 19th year, the Theatres at Risk Register calls the public’s attention to these important buildings, their challenges, and the significant cultural opportunities they can bring to local communities. Since the list began in 2006, more than 80 theatres have been restored, revived or had a suitable replacement built.
Theatres Trust Director Joshua McTaggart comments, We understand that local authorities are faced with making tough decisions, but the savings made in the short term will leave communities without vital facilities. Buildings were RAAC is present are particularly tricky, but it is important that communities are not left without theatre provision. Theatres Trust wants to work with local authorities and theatre operators to explore all possible options and find solutions to put theatres like this on a firmer footing.
Full list of theatres on the 2025 list available HERE
Further information: Theatres at Risk