Sheffield Arena, also known as the Motorpoint Arena is to have its first revamp after 21 years of hosting events.
Sheffield Arena has hosted local band Arctic Monkeys
The arena which opening in 1991 and is owned by Sheffield International Venues (SIV) has hosted some of the biggest acts in the world including, Iron Maiden, Rihanna, Bryan Adams, Bee Gees, Whitney Houston and local band Artic Monkeys.
The refurbishment of the 12,500 seater property includes a new roof, new seats and energy efficient lighting. Scratch resistant Plexiglas will also be installed for when the venue hosts Sheffield Stealers hockey matches, to improve the viewing for spectators. The venue is keen to have the work completed before fellow Yorkshire city Leeds opens its brand new arena in September.
Speaking of the race against time, Andrew Snelling, Deputy chief Executive of the Motorpoint Arena, said: “We’re very keen to do it before Leeds opens, but we’ve been planning to do this for some time.”
Work has already begun on the roof, and the chairs are expected to be replaced this summer. The work will have to be fitted around a busy schedule of famous acts and bands including, Diversity, Eddie Izzard, Jessie J and One Direction – which are all due to perform over the coming months.
Speaking of the need for a revamp, Steve Brailey, Chief Executive of SIV said: “It will allow us to enhance the customer’s experience and further highlight the Arena as one of the premier entertainment and leisure venues in the UK, capable of attracting and hosting a wide and diverse range of events, including concerts, sporting events, exhibitions and conferences.”
Over 700,000 people visited the Sheffield Arena last year. With the improvements currently underway, it is hoped this figure will rise and they will not lose customers to local rival Leeds Arena.
“It gives us the opportunity to enhance Yorkshire’s place on the world stage, increasing the national and international profile of the Sheffield city region and importantly will allow us to stay as the region’s premier entertainment venue with the onset of Leeds Arena,” Steve added.
Have you been to an event at the Sheffield Arena recently? What did you see? Do you think the improvements will keep people away from the Leeds Arena when it opens in September?
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