Co-op Live shares opening date as UK’s biggest indoor arena arrives in Manchester

A new opening date for Co-op Live has been confirmed by developers, as the £365m venue moves a step closer to completion.

Set to become the UK’s biggest indoor venue, Co-op Live will open for the first time in April next year.

Both Bruce Springsteen and venue investor Harry Styles are involved in the ‘smart bowl’ design, which has been crafted with an intimate atmosphere in mind. The bowl will feature no corporate branding, and the hospitality suites will utilise soundproof black curtains to maximise the impact of each show’s sound and lighting.

Co-op Live has been built solely with concert acoustics in mind and will boast the largest floor space of any indoor venue. A significantly lower ceiling and tiered seating built to bring the audience closer to the artist on stage are some of the other considerations made to ensure the bowl is firmly music-led.

“Co-op Live is about the fan and the artist, it is specially designed to deliver the best sound, atmosphere and experience for everyone who walks through our doors,” says President of OVG International, Jessica Koravos. “Innovative technology and design will bring a unique live entertainment experience to the UK.”

The 23,5000-capacity venue is currently under construction on the Etihad Campus. Along with the cutting-edge music offering, visitors will have 32 bars to choose from, along with restaurants, lounges and a locally-sourced and sustainable food and drink selection.

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