The Broadway Theatre in Barking shut in January 2024 after a building survey discovered the presence of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) – crumbling concrete – at the venue.
At the time, the venue said it only planned to reschedule shows until the end of the following month – but a year onwards it is still yet to welcome back audiences.
The theatre is listed as available for lease and the Rightmove listing describes the venue as “a landmark cultural and entertainment venue in the heart of Barking”.
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The theatre has been closed since January 2024 (Image: Dobbin & Sullivan) “This historic building offers a unique opportunity for prospective tenants seeking a prominent, well-connected space for commercial, entertainment, or community use.”
The listing explains the venue is available to let on the basis of a new full repairing and insuring (FRI) lease, to be granted by Barking and Dagenham Council.
In an advert brochure by Dobbin & Sullivan, it described the theatre as having “a rich and varied history, deeply intertwined with Barking’s cultural and social fabric”.
“Originally established as a public hall and later redeveloped into a theatre, it has been a focal point for entertainment, music, and community events for decades.”
The advert recounts some of the venue’s most famous moments such as the attempted assassination of boxing promoter Frank Warren in 1987 and the recording of musician Neil Young in a studio within the building in the late 20th century.
It was originally a public hall before its conversion into a theatre (Image: Dobbin & Sullivan) “With such a dynamic past, the Broadway Theatre offers an exceptional opportunity for new tenants to build upon its storied legacy in Barking’s evolving cultural landscape.”
On February 20, the theatre posted on Facebook to announce its extended closure and cancellation of all future shows.
The post said: “It is with regret that we must announce the cancellation of all future performances and events at the Broadway, Barking due to the venue’s ongoing closure.
“We will contact any remaining ticket holders to arrange refunds.
“We thank you for your continued support of The Broadway during this challenging period.”
The Broadway Theatre has not responded to a request for comment.
To find out more, call the agent on 020 3871 8928.