SUMMER | FEATURE
Co-op Live will be the first new purpose-built arena in England opened in a decade , offering stateof-the-art design and technology to deliver on our music-first promise .
“ Considering the broad interpretations of what constitutes an arena , current proposed or rumoured developments other than Co-op Live significantly vary in scale from 8,000 to 21,000 , to fit the city they are due to open in and to avoid market saturation .”
Roden says that among the priorities during the Co-op Live design process was accessibility . As a result , the arena will feature lowered service counters , step-free access to all floors and support for assistance dogs .
The premium offering will encompass 12 clubs and lounges including the recently unveiled Bentley Record Room .
In terms of flexibility for event operators , Co-op Live will offer show formats ranging in capacity from 8,400 for a lower bowl configuration to a maximum of 23,500 for an in-theround standing show .
“ Although designed to be musicfirst , we will also be hosting sport , comedy , and family events , alongside one-off events and awards ,” says Roden .
Aside from filling that arenasized hole in Bristol , the YTL Arena complex will include exhibition space and studios for film , TV and production rehearsals .
YTL Arena CEO Andrew Billingham says , “ The arena will provide the very best Bristol experience with a festival vibe , community stage to support grass roots music , six large lounges and restaurants , eight super suites and 2,000 premium seats .
“ Our back of house facilities will be some of the best in Europe .
Co-op Live Arena
Andrew Billingham
Gary Roden
With parking and easy access for 60 articulated lorries , 16 flexible dressing rooms , multiple production offices , large crew dining , shower and welfare facilities all catering to facilitate the best artist and production experience .”
Billingham says the reaction to the project from promoters has been extremely positive : “ Bristol and the South West has been identified as one of the key remaining regions without an arena serving more than 16 million people within a two-hour drive . We are taking calls on a frequent basis from promoters looking to book dates at the earliest opportunity . We are looking forward to working with all the major promoters to unlock this key market .”
He says construction has commenced on the infrastructure required to support the arena build and operations are now in the final stages of contractor engagement for the main arena build .
Clearly , Billingham has no doubts about the demand for an arena in Bristol , and he believes the UK market is strong enough to support other openings : “ Live music is stronger than ever , and data shows us that any new venue that has opened is a supply-led market , so I expect more new venues will continue this trend and add to a vibrant and growing industry .”
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