You might remember that when it first tried to open, around this time last year, Manchester’s Co-op Live had some major teething problems. But that’s now all been put to bed. Since it eventually opened officially, the venue has hosted the likes of Paul McCartney, Sabrina Carpenter and Liam Gallagher and in the coming months will welcome even more music giants, including Stevie Wonder, Billie Eilish, Bruce Springsteen and Iron Maiden.
Now, the UK’s biggest indoor arena may be getting even bigger. Well, actually, the arena itself is staying the same, but there could be brand new eating and retail space right next door. This week, Co-op Live revealed plans for a new canalside complex on the south terrace of the building.
The hub would be right next to Co-op Live and Ashton Canal, offering gig-goers somewhere to hang out pre-concert. If approved, the hub will have capacity for around 600 people, with a new café, bar, kitchen and merch store. It’ll also open daily to residents and visitors and will be available for community and private rentals.
That’s all we know at this stage. The plans haven’t been submitted to Manchester City Council just yet. The venue will be hosting an exhibition on Thursday, April 12 to get input from members of the public for the idea. You can see the invitation for that event here. A planning application is due to be submitted soon after that.
Time Out in Manchester
While we wait on updates for Co-op Live’s canalside complex, let us show you where else you can go in Manchester pre or post show. Take a look at Time Out’s picks of the city’s best bars and best restaurants. And if you’re planning on making a whole weekend of it, here are the best hotels to stay in and the greatest things to do while you’re there.
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