Plans to revamp the arena were first proposed in 2020. Credit: via ASM Global

THING OF THE WEEK

AO LET IT GO... After kicking up a right royal fuss about the creation of a rival arena in Eastlands, the AO Arena’s operator ASM Global has now committed to a £50m investment to upgrade the ageing asset. Not bad considering ASM claimed its redevelopment plans would be unviable if Oak View Group’s 23,500-capacity venue was given the go-ahead. Looks like Manchester can accommodate two large arenas after all. 


Credit: Krol Corlett Construction

HIDDEN GEMS… Krol Corlett Construction discovered some hidden treasure when the contractor removed some asbestos-filled walls at 30-32 Bold Street in Liverpool. This gorgeous tilework had been hiding for years on the site of the old Halifax Bank. Krol Corlett, working alongside building surveyors Peacock Stevens & Co on the site, is readying it to become the latest location of restaurant Pizza Punks. Here’s hoping that when Krol Corlett is finished with the space, this lady is restored to a place of prominence.


OLD BOOZERS... Diggers can be seen on the site of Maldron’s proposed 188-bedroom hotel on Chapel Street. Due to a lack of hoardings shielding the site from public view, passers-by can clearly see the remains of former buildings being unearthed from beneath the tarmac. According to an archaeological desk study of the site carried out by the University of Salford, these could be what is left of the King’s Head Inn that occupied the site from the mid-17th century, or the Dog and Volunteer, which occupied site around the 19th century. 


Credit: Redrow

JUST GIVING… Steve Morgan, founder of North Wales-based housebuilder Redrow, has donated £50m to help cure diabetes. The donation has been made through his charitable foundation and is a timely example of how wealthy people can use their money for good. Well done, Steve. 


Credit: Benjamin Davies on Unsplash

OUTLANDISH PRICES… If we needed any more proof that the cost of land is going up, an auction in Cumbria has provided it. Land from two farms went for around 50% more than the guide price. H&H Land & Estates put the 83-acre Fowlpool Farm in Hornsby Gate and the 250-acre East Farm at Blennerhasset under the hammer at an auction on Wednesday. The sites sold for more than £5m and mostly to other farmers.

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