HOK redesign of Manchester Arena could make it largest in Europe
by Tom Walker | 17 Mar 2020
– John Sharkey
ASM Global has revealed HOK-designed plans to increase the capacity at its Manchester Arena venue to 24,000, which would make it the largest arena in Europe.
As well as the proposed increase to capacity, the plans include the creation of an additional concourse level to house VIP boxes and lounges, as well as food and drink outlets.
A new "worker bee façade" – in honour of Manchester's symbol, the bee – would be added and upgrades would be made to the venue's access infrastructure.
In a statement, John Sharkey, executive vice president European operations for ASM Global, said: “These plans have been made public earlier than intended, as we are still in the process of consulting with Manchester City Council, our neighbours and landlord on the design – their input and involvement in this journey will be crucial.
“In particular, we’re working to ensure our final proposals fit with the council’s wider infrastructure planning. We are also in dialogue with the families of the May 2017 terrorist attack around a fitting memorial for the City Room.”
The plans were unveiled just days after International sports and live entertainment company Oak View Group (OVG) announced plans to build a £350m ($421m, €384m), 23,500-capacity arena in the Eastlands area of Manchester.
Manchester Arena
An additional concourse level to house VIP boxes and lounges would be created Credit: HOK/ASM Global
The designs have been created by HOK architects Credit: HOK/ASM Global
The redesign could see the venue's capacity increase to 24,000 Credit: HOK/ASM Global
ASM Global has revealed HOK -designed plans to increase the capacity at its Manchester Arena venue to 24,000, which would make it the largest arena in Europe. As well as the proposed increase to capacity, the plans include the creation of an additional concourse level to house VIP boxes and lounges, as well as food and drink outlets. A new "worker bee façade" – in honour of Manchester's symbol, the
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