Etihad arena consultation opens next week
Dates have been revealed for public events showcasing the early stage plans for a 20,000-capacity arena at the Etihad Campus in East Manchester.
Global venue developer Oak View Group was revealed as the backer for the scheme earlier this year, after the potential for an arena in the area was revealed as part of Manchester City Council’s overhaul of the Eastlands masterplan.
The proposals have proved controversial with Manchester Arena and city centre businesses, who objected to the masterplan consultation due to fears a competitor arena would draw visitors away from the city centre.
The operator of Manchester Arena spoke out against the proposals, with executive vice-president of SMG John Sharkey telling Place North West “it is just not possible” for the city to support two arenas, “and if it’s not ours then the city will lose 1.2 million people coming through it, and could turn to tumbleweed.”
Locals around the site also voiced concerns regarding congestion.
Oak View is currently developing feasibility studies for the project.
In a statement, Oak View said: “We know that the local community will be very interested in these plans. Over the next few months, Oak View Group will consult with local residents and businesses to help shape our thinking.
“The main focus for this first stage of consultation is what we need to do to support job creation and to make sure a new arena works for the community. We are also keen to seek views on transportation and parking priorities for local residents, among other issues.
“A planned second consultation, later this year, would ask for feedback on our more detailed plans.”
The consultation event dates are:
- Monday 14 October, 2.30pm to 8pm – The Foyer at the HSBC UK National Cycling Centre, Stuart Street, M11 4DQ
- Tuesday 15 October, 2.30pm to 7pm – Bridge 5 Mill, 22A Beswick Street, M4 7HR
- Wednesday 16 October, 10.30am to 1pm – Miles Platting Community Library, Victoria Mill Community Centre, Lower Vickers Street, M40 7LJ
- Thursday 17 October, 2.30pm to 7pm – Beswick Library, 60 Grey Mare Lane, M11 3D
John Sharkey should have put his hand in his pocket and done the arena up years ago rather then crying now some competition has come along
By Bob
It’s a done deal , no need for consultation.
By Roberto
A great new addition to Sport City
By Roy Jones
Good news for that area, as long as there is enough business for both to survive; the MEN sitting empty and even more neglected wouldn’t be good for anybody.
By Hmmm
The congestion around the Etihad is horrendous, trams or no trams. This would be almost as bad getting in and out, as when the footy’s on, albeit with half the capacity? However, the Manchester Arena takes the absolute mick with its bar prices….
By Dave Ridge
Good news. Knock the MEN arena down and redevelop the area around Victoria Station…great opportunity to expand the station. Large concerts and events should be out of the city centre. People can always come back in afterwards for a night out if they want to
By Steve
Not sure planning should be used to regulate competition between businesses, this is a market question, the Arena should get special protection.
By RICH X