AO Arena has announced it will increase its total capacity to 23,000 including a 100% increase in standing floor capacity, to help fans feel even closer to their favourite artists.
There will also be a brand-new lower concourse designed to enhance the experience for standing floor visitors.
The 30-year-old arena is already amongst the biggest in the UK and is getting larger thanks to the redevelopment project set for final completion in March – with AO Arena and ASM Global promising to keep door open for the duration of the re-development, which includes room for 2,000 more visitors.
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.”
Guests will see 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 an elevated food offering 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.
There will also be improved acoustics, sound and sightlines. And for the artists, there will be an upgraded backstage artist compound complete with a private kitchen. Industry-leading heating and ventilation systems have been installed.
Manchester rapper Aitch visited the venue for 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.
“The AO has been pushing the music scene forward for years and over one million people walk through these legendary doors every year, and we have them right on our doorstep.”
