Munich and Edinburgh arena plans move forward
Proposed new arena developments in Munich, Germany and Edinburgh, Scotland are edging closer to reality.
Bavaria-based developer SWMunich Real Estate this week presented an update on its MUCcc Arena scheme in Munich to the district town of Freising’s planning and design advisory board.
The board, which comprised experts from various disciplines, praised the quality of the planning and architecture of the venue, in addition to making suggestions that will be incorporated into the climate-neutral arena project.
“The presentation of the project has shown us how well thought-out planning and sophisticated architecture can go hand in hand,” says Prof Dr Rudolf Hierl, chair of the design advisory board. “The concert arena sets new standards for architectural and urban quality in our region. We are delighted to be able to support this project.”
SWMunich will build and operate the 20,000-cap venue, backed by more than €300 million of private sector investment.
“The positive response from the design advisory board encourages us in our endeavours to create a concert arena that meets the highest standards,” says Munich Arena managing partner Lorenz Schmid. “The advisory board’s suggestions will flow directly into the further development of the Munich Arena concert arena to make it an enrichment for Freising and the region.”
“We’re determined to enhance Edinburgh as a venue for live music and other events”
Designed by Populous, the arena will be located in a new green space next to LabCampus, the technology and innovation centre at Munich Airport, with the seating to be arranged in a 270° horseshoe shape.
“We are proud to realise a project like the concert arena in our city, which is not only architecturally impressive, but also offers enormous economic and cultural advantages,” adds Freising mayor Tobias Eschenbacher.
Meanwhile, AEG Europe’s proposed 8,500-capacity arena project in Edinburgh is also on track after being backed by planning officers ahead of a council meeting later this month. The promoter and venue operator is seeking planning permission for the venue in Edinburgh Park, with hopes to launch it in 2027.
“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,” says Alistair Wood, AEG Europe’s EVP, real estate and development. “This reflects month 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. We are hopeful the planning committee will support the officers’ recommendations.”
Subject to planning permission, work is expected to begin on the project in early 2025. The Scottish capital’s current largest indoor venues are the 3,059-cap Edinburgh Playhouse and 3,000-cap O2 Academy Edinburgh.
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AEG Europe unveils Edinburgh arena plans
AEG Europe has unveiled plans for a new 8.500-cap arena in Edinburgh, Scotland.
The promoter and venue operator is seeking planning approval for the venue, which would be located in the heart of Edinburgh Park.
The park’s owner, award-winning developer Parabola, has agreed to sell the west Edinburgh site for the new venue to AEG, which notes the location offers “unrivalled” public transport and motorway access, including two nearby tram stops, two mainline stations, bus connections and motorway links.
Subject to approval, work is expected to begin in early 2025, with the first live events taking to the stage in 2027.
“AEG is thrilled to announce this spectacular new arena for Edinburgh,” says Alex Hill, president and CEO of AEG Europe. “It’s a location with immense potential, amplified by Parabola’s transformative development and regeneration of Edinburgh Park. The much needed 8,500-capacity arena will bring world-class live music and entertainment to Edinburgh, further cementing its reputation as a destination for culture and global tourism,. We look forward to this development becoming an integral part of the local community.”
“This investment will complement all that is on offer at Edinburgh Park and ensure that the arts and culture has an outstanding live performance facility”
A planning application will be submitted to the City of Edinburgh Council in the coming weeks, and it is anticipated the matter will then be determined within six months. Public consultation exhibitions will be held at Edinburgh Park as part of the planning process.
“Parabola is delighted to be working with AEG in the delivery of such an iconic venue for the city,” adds Peter Millican OBE, chairman and founder of Parabola. “This investment will complement all that is on offer at Edinburgh Park and ensure that the arts and culture has an outstanding live performance facility. The new Edinburgh Arena will put west Edinburgh on the map as a new cultural destination.”
The Scottish capital’s current largest indoor venue is the 3,000-cap O2 Academy Edinburgh, although the Royal Highlands Centre, situated on the outskirts of the city, holds 10,500 and is occasionally used for concerts.
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