NEC Arena set for revamp

Aug 15 2008 By Jon Griffin

A HUGE £28 million revamp of the NEC Arena increasing the concert venue’s capacity with 2,000 extra seats, has been given the green light.

Planning officials from Solihull Borough Council have granted full approval to The NEC Group to redevelop the venue and create brand new seats, toilets, restaurants and a VIP Party Deck.

It follows an announcement last month that the Arena is to have a new look and name through a £28 million funding package which includes a major sponsorship deal with global electronic giants LG.

The concert and events venue, which attracts one million visitors every year, will become the LG Arena from September 1 under the new agreement, with a new capacity of 13,500.

Birmingham City Council has provided a £25 million loan which will be serviced and repaid through improved financial performance from the enlarged venue.

An application for a grant of the £3 million balance is still being considered by development agency Advantage West Midlands.

Work will now begin in September on creating brand new facilities after councillors approved the plans this week.

Phil Mead, managing director, The NEC Group Arenas, said: “It’s great news that Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council has granted us planning permission for this exciting redevelopment of our world-class venue.

“We are pleased to announce that work will now start on creating brand new seating, hospitality, bars, restaurants and other essential customer facilities which will create an outstanding customer experience at the LG Arena.

“As part of the redevelopment, our capacity will be increased by around 2,000. The arena is already one of the region’s biggest attractions.”

NEC bosses say the redevelopment will keep Birmingham firmly on the entertainment map for tours by major artists.