AO Arena announced that through its redevelopment, its total capacity will increase to 23,000, including a 100% increase in standing floor capacity, to 6,200.
This is supported by a brand-new lower concourse designed to enhance the experience of the venue’s standing-floor fans. The arena is already amongst the biggest in the UK and Europe and grows further through its transformative redevelopment project set for final completion in March. AO Arena and ASM Global have delivered a complete re-imagination and reconstruction of the 30-year-old venue whilst continuing to open its doors to entertain fans for the duration.
Standing strong at an increased maximum capacity of 23,000 upon completion, the AO Arena is delighted to welcome more fans than ever before. Chris Bray, President of ASM Global Europe said, “As part of AO Arena’s redevelopment we have dramatically expanded the standing floor space which means it will compete with any other venue in the UK. Its unique bowl configuration means that AO Arena proudly remains the biggest sporting indoor arena, and we are excited to continue to host the world’s biggest and most exciting events here in the heart of Manchester.”
With the addition of new entrances and state of the art technology, getting in and out of the arena will be the quickest in any venue in Europe. Digitalisation of the concourse spaces will heighten pre-show excitement and offer even more ease for guests finding their way around the arena. The venue will also boast a multitude of new bars and food offerings including The Mezz restaurant and bar featuring a menu which includes some dishes created by Michelin-star Chef Simon Rogan and Chef Tom Barnes of Skof.
The arena’s overall experience has been enhanced with improved acoustics, sound and sightlines. The artists experience has been upgraded with an all-new backstage artist compound complete with a private kitchen. Heating and ventilation systems have been installed, which are more environmentally-friendly and sustainable and are essential in any build in a post covid world.
Amongst some of the first to witness the transformation included Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham who welcomed guests to the Topping Out Ceremony, describing the AO Arena aptly as “the beating heart of Manchester” and going on to share his own fond personal memories of the venue.
One of Manchester’s most successful artists and rappers Aitch visited the venue as a very special surprise guest. Welcoming guests to the evening festivities at the recent Topping Out ceremony he said, “When the AO Arena asked me to be part of tonight I thought, how can I say no? It’s always been a huge part of the culture here in Manchester and you know I’m all about anything that gives back to the community,” he continued, “The AO has been pushing the music scene forward for over 27 years and over one million people walk through these legendary doors every year, and we have them right on our doorstep.”
This new era of the AO Arena promises to attract even more guests and fans through its doors. Last year, cementing its position as the city of Manchester’s arena, AO Arena celebrated its best year yet, raising tens of thousands of pounds and giving hundreds of hours to local community projects, celebrating record attendances for LTA Tennis, England Netball, KSI vs Fury and Elton John’s Farewell Tour. This year, there’s plenty to come, including The National Lottery’s Big Night of Musicals, Peter Kay Live, The 1975, Bill Bailey, Niall Horan, Ne-Yo and more.
The AO Arena’s redevelopment will be revealed in full in March 2024.
