Collaboration helped secure future of Peterborough’s Key Theatre with permanent RAAC mitigation
The main auditorium at Peterborough’s Key Theatre has reopened after Lindum worked in partnership to install a permanent RAAC mitigation scheme to keep building users safe. The project was procured through the Medium Works Framework which we manage on behalf of The Education Alliance.
In collaboration with multidisciplinary consultancy Pick Everard, life expired roof coverings have also been renewed and the Mechanical, Ventilation and Air Conditioning upgraded to meet current regulations. It follows the discovery of RAAC (Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete) in 2023, which led to Lindum’s successful delivery of a temporary RAAC solution in time to save panto season.
Venue owner Peterborough City Council (PCC) then assigned funding for the new permanent mitigation works and Lindum was appointed following a full tender process through the Medium Works Framework.
Councillor Mohammed Jamil, Peterborough City Council’s Cabinet Member for Finance and Corporate Governance, said: “The Key Theatre is one of the jewels in our crown in Peterborough and is much-loved by generations of families here. I’m absolutely delighted that this work has been completed so that future generations can continue to enjoy the wide range of cultural and leisure opportunities it offers. I would like to thank Lindum Group and everyone involved in this project. I would also encourage residents and visitors to look at the wide and varied programme of shows that are coming up and support this wonderful performance space.”
The work was carried out between May 2025 and July 2026.
Paul Kelly, Building Surveyor at Pick Everard, said: “The project was originally going to include the full removal of the RAAC panels underneath a temporary roof structure, however, investigations of the existing structure once Lindum commenced works on site identified that it could not support the loads of such a structure and a new scheme was required to be designed. The revised scheme involved the construction of a new deck within the roof space of the auditorium, which would fully support the RAAC should it fail in the future. To further protect the retained RAAC, the original dilapidated roof coverings were proposed to be replaced with a new guaranteed single-ply product, which will protect the roof for at least the next 20 years. Other works have included the replacement of the outdated MVAC system to the Main Auditorium to provide heating, cooling and fresh air to meet current standards and enhanced fire safety measures.”
“Following the discovery of RAAC in 2023, our team first delivered a temporary solution that enabled the theatre to remain operational during a challenging period. This latest project has now provided long-term permanent mitigation, ensuring the auditorium can be enjoyed safely for many years to come. It is fantastic to see the auditorium reopen and welcome audiences back.”
Tom Retallick, Senior Category Manager for Construction at Pagabo, said: “The successful completion of the permanent RAAC mitigation works at Peterborough’s Key Theatre demonstrates the value of collaboration in delivering complex building safety projects. Through close partnership between Peterborough City Council, Lindum and Pick Everard, this scheme has not only secured the long-term future of a much-loved community venue but also enhanced the building through vital infrastructure upgrades. Projects like this show how the right procurement approach can bring together expertise, accelerate delivery and ensure public assets remain safe, resilient and fit for generations to come.”
For more information on the Medium Works Framework, click here.
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