EDINBURGH council chiefs have given their backing to a new 8500-capacity indoor arena near the city’s airport.
AEG, the entertainment giants who are putting on Taylor Swift’s concerts in the Scottish capital, are expected to be given the green light for the venue.
The Scotsman reports it is hoped that work on a long-awaited arena for the city will begin in the first half of 2025, with the aim for the venue to be up and running by 2027.
AEG has said the venue will complement “one of the best cities in the world for the arts and live entertainment”.
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An overall audience of more than 700,000 a year is expected to flock to the new venue which would host music, sports and comedy events on a 200,000 square foot site at Edinburgh Park.
The venue, which would be served by two existing tram stops as well as a train station, is predicted to create an estimated 1350 jobs and generate an additional £520 million for the city’s economy.
AEG already operate the 02 in London, as well as arenas in Paris, Berlin, California and Shanghai.
If planning permission is secured, AEG is expected to launch an immediate hunt for a commercial backer which would ultimately secure “naming rights” for the arena.
A report for councillors states: “The proposal is acceptable. There are no other material considerations that outweigh this conclusion.”
President and chief executive of AEG Europe Alex Hill said: “We’re delighted that the proposals for a new arena in Edinburgh are recommended for approval and we look forward to presenting the facts about the proposals at committee and answering any questions elected members may have.
“This reflects months of consultation and discussion with the public and key stakeholders prior to the application being submitted and a positive ongoing dialogue with all throughout the application process.
“This is the most sustainable site available and we’re determined to enhance Edinburgh as a venue for live music and other events.
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“We are hopeful the planning committee will support the officers’ recommendations.”
The report for councillors on the project, announced by AEG in November, said the arena was proposed for a “suitable location” and that it would be “energy efficient”.
It will be close to an existing Premier Inn hotel at Lochside Court as well as the Edinburgh Park rail and tram hub.
The council report states: “The proposed arena building will be positioned slightly northwards on the site and will occupy almost all of the site.
“A plaza is proposed at the front of the building on the site’s southern end. The proposed design of the arena is a ‘bowl’ auditorium, including retractable seating around the event floor.
“The lower levels will have functional spaces, such as crew and storage areas. The main upper plaza level will give access to the main concourse. The lower level of the plaza will give access to the event floor.
“An access from Lochside Court is also proposed, which will give access for ‘premium’ spectators to a lounge and terrace areas.”
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