Theatres Trust 20th Theatres at Risk Register

In its 50th anniversary year, Theatres Trust is marking the 20th year of the Theatres at Risk Register by highlighting both encouraging progress and continuing challenges for theatres across the UK. The 2026 Theatres at Risk Register comprises of 39 theatres across the UK under threat of closure, redevelopment or severe decay, which all have the potential to be revived for their local communities with the right support.

Two theatres, Abbeydale Picture House and Leith Theatre, are being removed from this year’s Register as significant progress has been made towards their respective restoration and reopening. These two theatres are no longer deemed ‘at risk’ by the national advisory body for theatres.

There are two new additions to the Theatres at Risk Register. Preston Guild Hall is the only professional theatre in the city and has been closed since 2019, initially due to legal disputes and more recently as due to the discovery of ‘crumbling concrete’ RAAC in the roof of the Great Hall and Chapter Theatre. The Forum in Barrow-in-Furness closed due to asbestos both in the theatre and the connected building, which has led to proposals of demolition. With no plans for a replacement, this would leave Barrow without a theatre. Both Preston Guild Hall and The Forum are local authority-owned theatres built in the 1970s.

First launched in 2006, the Theatres at Risk Register shines a spotlight on theatres under threat and helps galvanise support for securing their future. Over two decades, this campaign has played a vital role in raising awareness, building partnerships, and supporting the revival of important cultural assets in communities across the country. In the intervening two decades, more than 80 theatres have been restored and revived, or suitable replacements have been built. Notable success stories include Bradford Live, Stockton Globe, Walthamstow Granada and Wilton’s Music Hall.

Theatres Trust advocates for the whole of the UK’s theatre sector and provides a range of services targeted to help theatre owners and operators to make the most of their buildings and prevent them from becoming ‘at risk’.

Further Information:  Theatres at Risk