Co-op Live

The ambition for Co-op live project is to introduce a new breed of world-class arena, one that draws together the cutting-edge use of technology, sustainability and multifunctionality. The state-of-the-art venue will enable Manchester to host more events including a broader range of music, sports and entertainment events and support East Manchester’s ongoing regeneration. Developed following extensive consultation with local people, companies and organisations, the venue will be the largest-capacity indoor arena in the UK, but also the most sustainable and energy-efficient. Sustainability has been at the heart of the design process and the venue has been specifically designed to support Manchester’s Zero Carbon 2038 commitments. It will incorporate a suite of cutting-edge sustainability features to create an inclusive, low carbon and low waste venue, with a target of sending zero operational waste to landfill. Co-op Live will redefine the traditional arena model, offering all fans the best possible event experience. Inspired by Manchester’s role as a leading global centre for music, sport and live entertainment, the seating bowl will bring fans closer to the stage than at any comparable venue in Europe, as well as incorporating bespoke standing spaces throughout the venue, rather than only on the arena floor. As well as global artists, the arena can also be reconfigured for a range of events and opportunities to support a year-round event programme. Populous’ designs envisage a cutting-edge venue that provides both a physical and emotional centre for the Eastlands community. Designed in response to the Manchester and Eastlands urban environments, the building’s bold contemporary form complements the public realm and combines aesthetic beauty with an identifiable profile that will be globally recognised. The cutting-edge LED’s integrated into the facade will create a seamless aesthetic between event and non-event modes, day and night. This design approach extends to the spaces outside the building. Next to the arena there will be a new canal-side space with food and drink offerings that will be available for the public to enjoy on both event days and non-event days. The inclusive hard- and soft-landscaped routes to the venue will also help to create an exciting approach experience for both audiences and the local community.