One of Manchester’s most eagerly anticipated new openings of recent times, Co-op Live has finally announced its official opening date. And it’s just a little bit later than we first expected.
Originally planned to open in December this year, the date has now been pushed back to April 2024 when the UK’s newest (and largest) arena will open its doors to the public for the very first time.
Taking over a plot of land just next door to Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium, the 23,500 capacity Co-op Live has been invested in by Harry Styles and includes a uniquely designed bowl that aims to create an intimate audience experience within the vast space.
The large-scale structure is currently being built by construction company BAM Construct UK and will welcome fans in April next year through a series of test events. The first confirmed act to open the venue to paying members of the public is set to be announced in the coming months.
Speaking to the MEN, a spokesperson for Co-op Live said: “Co-op Live will be opening our doors to fans in April 2024. It’s huge kudos to BAM, and the dozens of local subcontractors working on the project, that we are well within our original timeframe and on-budget given the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic, supply chain shortages, and an energy crisis.
“We’re proud to be on the home stretch to delivering Co-op Live and we can’t wait to invite fans in to experience the biggest and most sustainable arena in the UK.”
Co-op Live has pledged to reduce its carbon footprint by using locally sourced construction materials that are from zero waste and landfill. The venue is also committed to increasing biodiversity by planting trees and wildflowers around the area, using solar energy and having a no single use plastic policy.
Once completed, the venue will also house 32 bars, restaurants and lounges offering locally sourced and sustainable food and drink.
With some big players in the arena and stadium game across Manchester, Co-op Live goes up against the likes of Old Trafford Cricket Ground, Etihad Stadium and also the AO Arena that sits on Hunts Bank, all of which host sell-out events across the calendar year.
Once open, it’s said that the venue will generate £1.5bn for the local economy, as well as thousands of jobs and a number of massive gigs, sporting events and family-friendly shows that might’ve previously missed Manchester out.
