A £350 million arena is coming to the North of England, making it the largest in country.
Manchester’s planning committee approved the plans yesterday (September 24) to build an indoor music, entertainment, and sports arena next door to Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium.
US company Oval View Group (OVG) are behind the ambitious development, who propose the project will create 3500 construction jobs and an additional 1000 jobs when in full operation.
OVG believe the new venue could boost the city’s economy by as much as £1.5 billion in the next 10 years.
Work is expected to commence as early as November.
The new arena will have space for nearly 24,000 seats, making it larger than the city centre’s Manchester Arena which currently has a 20,000 capacity.
Managers of Manchester Arena ASM Global are deeply disappointed with the new approval. Citing there not to be a market for a second major arena in Manchester and believes it could be detrimental for their business, as well as pulling visitors away spending in the city centre.
However ASM Global’s concerns seemed to fell on deaf ears by OVG and Manchester Council. Commenting on the approval Councillor Pat Karney said: “Today’s decision is about confidence in our city, Greater Manchester and the North West.
“It is about new employment and training opportunities for thousands across East Manchester and beyond at a time when they are badly needed.
“The city centre, our communities and the wider city will be strengthened by our newest neighbour – Oak View Group Manchester.”
Elsewhere, Hong Hong Disneyland are disappointed as government pull out of £1 billion extension.
