A theatre forced to shut after reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) was discovered in its roof will now have remain closed for at least two months.

The Orchard Theatre, in Home Gardens, Dartford, closed its doors last week following an inspection at the beginning of the month.

It was carried out after the Department for Education confirmed 156 schools across the country had to close after ceilings built with concrete had collapsed.

At the time Trafalgar Entertainment confirmed performances at the venue were to be postponed until at least the end of September.

However, today Dartford council (DBC) and Trafalgar Theatres stated this cancellation period would need to be extended.

In a joint statement a spokesman for the organisations said: “Trafalgar Theatres and DBC wanted to give an update on the situation.

“We have been greatly touched by the concern and support shown to The Orchard since the announcement.

“It underscores the huge role our theatre plays in the cultural and economic life of the town.

“We had no alternative but to close the theatre based on the advice we received but are committed to re-opening to audiences as soon as we can.

“We initially confirmed a one-month closure to allow more surveys.

“These have focused on whether work could be limited to specific parts of the roof and be phased over a period during which performances could continue. It is now clear that a phased approach is not possible.

“DBC has therefore begun the process of fast-tracking a full roof replacement project and are engaging with specialist contractors to design and build a new auditorium roof.

“We may also look to carry out some other improvements during the time the theatre is closed.

“The works will be substantial, but we have long-term confidence in the venue and that means investing fully to prepare it for decades of future service even if it means a longer period of closure in the short term.

“At the same time, Trafalgar Theatres are working with the council to minimise the impact on performances including exploring alternative ways and places to provide shows.

“We hope to find ways to reduce the impacts on theatre goers, the great team at The Orchard Theatre and the local businesses who benefit from the custom of theatregoers and casts.

“We are grateful for the support Trafalgar Theatres has received from the wider arts community, producers, and artists.

“At the same time, DBC has begun discussions with local groups and amateur societies to ensure they are fully supported too.

“Exploring ways to get a performance programme up-and-running will take a short time so, sadly, we will be extending the formal suspension of performances at The Orchard Theatre until at least October 31.”

The spokesman added that ticket holders should wait to be contacted by the venue with information about rescheduled dates or, where this is not possible, full reimbursement.

There is no need for customers to contact the theatre at this stage.

Cllr Jeremy Kite (Con), the leader of DBC, said: “It is a big blow to us, but compared to people’s lives and safety it pales into insignificance.

“We had to do the right thing and that’s what we have done.

“In our initial conversations with Trafalgar Theatres, it was very clear that they were looking at keeping staff working here depending on how long the break was going to be.

“If it turns out to be longer, I’m pretty confident they are the sort of company that has positions all around the place. They value their staff very much and I am sure they will look after them.”