Update regarding structural issues identified at the Brunton in Musselburgh.
In 2022 the UK Government advised all local authorities to check as a matter of urgency whether any public buildings in their estates have roofs, floors, cladding or walls made of Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC).
RAAC is a lightweight form of precast concrete, frequently used in public sector buildings in the UK from the mid-1960s to at least the mid-1980s. It is mainly found in roofs, although occasionally in floors and walls. It is less durable than traditional concrete and there have been issues raised as a result, which could have significant safety consequences.
East Lothian Council started the process of identifying the possible presence of RAAC within our public buildings initially from building records. This was then followed by site inspections by Engineering Services and when RAAC was positively identified a specialist Chartered Structural Engineer was employed to work in conjunction with our Engineering Services Team to undertake a condition survey and risk assessment on the RAAC identified.
Structural issues have now been identified with roof areas covering all performance venues, the venue one bar area, and Esk Rooms in The Brunton where RAAC in the form of Siporex roof slabs cover these particular building areas. From a safety perspective these areas now require to be removed from use to enable further survey work to be carried out. The offices and the Bistro are not affected and so remain open for use.
We will endeavour to provide an update when possible and are working to support the Brunton Theatre Trust with its programme of events and performance commitments through consideration of alternative venues.