A theatre has confirmed it will not reopen for another nine months as contractors need more time to complete building works.

The Orchard Theatre in Home Gardens, Dartford, was aiming to welcome back show-goers this month after the council discovered RAAC in the roof last year.

However, plans were delayed in June due to problems reinstating the technical equipment and wider works to improve the audience experience.

This meant the popular venue would not be able to reopen for shows until early 2025.

Today (September 13), the theatre has released a statement confirming performances will now not be able to take place before the end of May.

It said: “Works are progressing at the Orchard Theatre, although contractors have confirmed they need more time to complete the building work required.

“Therefore it will not be possible for shows to take place before the end of May 2025.

“Some shows will be rescheduled and others possibly cancelled.

“We aim to provide a further update in the coming weeks. We thank you for your continued support.”

It asked ticket holders to wait until they are contacted by the venue or their original point of purchase once decisions have been made.

The theatre was forced to close with immediate effect last September after reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) was found in its roof.

An inspection had been prompted by a nationwide audit of public buildings following the emergence of the potentially dangerous material in several schools last summer.

The repairs are expected to cost £7 million.

Following the closure, Dartford council and Trafalgar Theatres, the operator of the venue, constructed a £2 million alternative theatre, known as Orchard West.

The purpose-built theatre, just 300 metres away from The Orchard, in Hythe Street, was erected in just six weeks and was open in time for the panto season.

This year, Britain’s Got Talent winner Sydnie Christmas, from Gravesham, will make her panto debut at Orchard West.

The singer will play Fairy Christmas in a brand-new production of Sleeping Beauty at the theatre’s temporary home.