PARTS of the Brunton Hall will be closed for a “considerable period of time” after surveys found that “substantial areas” of the building’s roof were constructed from reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC).

Arts venues at the Musselburgh building have been closed since March after an inspection found “structural issues” with the roof.

Closures were due to be in place until June, but further surveys have confirmed that the theatre is set to be closed for longer.

RACC is a lightweight form of concrete that was often used in building construction from the 1950s through to the mid-1980s.

It is recognised that RAAC panels have material and construction deficiencies, making them less robust than traditional concrete.

Prior to the full structural surveys being carried out, the suspected affected areas had been secured, with access only permitted for engineer inspections.

The areas primarily affected are those over the theatre auditorium and other performance spaces.

Councillor Norman Hampshire, leader of East Lothian Council, said: “Unfortunately, it is now clear that parts of the Brunton Hall, and in particular the performance venues, will have to remain closed for use on safety grounds for a considerable period of time.

“The council’s engineering team are now preparing an options report to identify viable solutions for repair in relation to both the roof and wider fabric of the building.

“This options report is likely to take well into the summer at the earliest due to the scale and detail of the work involved.

“I appreciate this is not the news that Musselburgh residents would wish to hear but the safety of staff and visitors is paramount and the council will continue to share updates as appropriate.”

The council could not confirm how long the theatre would remain closed.

An options report is set to be carried out in which a variety of options will be discussed on what the next step will be regarding repairs.

The council confirmed this was likely to be completed at the end of June and options would then be presented to councillors.

The Brunton Theatre Trust is presenting its performing arts programme in alternative venues while the Brunton remains closed. Visit thebrunton.co.uk for more information.