Southend Council has granted permission for major repair works at the Dixon Studio, a 100-seat venue within the Palace Theatre which was temporarily closed in 2023 after reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) was discovered in its structure. The approval paves the way for a permanent repair programme after temporary measures were introduced three years ago to allow the Dixon Studio to reopen and continue hosting performances. As part of the programme, the Dixon Studio is scheduled to close during late summer and early autumn. However, theatre bosses have stressed there will be no impact on performances at the neighbouring Palace Theatre, which will remain open throughout the work. “The Palace Theatre will remain open for shows and customers will not be affected.”