RACC is a lightweight form of concrete that was often used in building construction from the 1950s through to the mid-1980s. It is usually found in roofs and occasionally in walls and floors. It is recognised that RAAC panels have material and construction deficiencies making them less robust than traditional concrete and is considered in industry terms ‘a latent defect’.

Prior to the full structural surveys being carried out the suspected affected areas in Brunton Hall have been secured with access only permitted for engineer inspections. The areas primarily affected are those over the theatre auditorium and other performance spaces.

East Lothian Council leader, Norman Hampshire, 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 building updates as appropriate.”