Co-op Live arena has first seats installed ahead of hosting Take That, Liam Gallagher and more

A landmark day has passed for Manchester's new Co-op Live. The first of its many seats has been installed, moving the construction a step closer to the all important opening in April 2024.

When completed, the venue will become the biggest indoor arena in the UK. Once opened, it will be larger than both the AO arena and London’s O2 Arena.  

To mark the special occasion, Co-op has also announced a brand new initiative. It is one which they say captures the commitment between Co-op and the arena to support young people. 

As part of the initiative, young people from across the local community will be awarded exclusive gig tickets throughout the year. These will be awarded to young people who are the driving force of social change throughout Manchester and the UK. The first recipient of the tickets is Binish Syed Qureshi from Manchester, selected by the Foundation because she helped create accessible public spaces in her local area.

Gary Roden, Executive Director and General Manager, Co-op Live, commented: “Today embodies everything that this arena is about – fans, community and music. Going to gigs is such a special experience, and we are delighted to support Co-op with this initiative to make sure that as many young people as possible from the community get the opportunity to experience Co-op Live.

“Seeing the first seats installed is an incredibly exciting milestone in the venue’s construction, and signals that we are getting closer to being able to welcome fans and artists to our amazing arena. Co-op Live is for everyone, and our partnership with Co-op is going to help us make that a reality.”

Binish Syed Qureshi added: “Through my work, I feel great that I am in a position to amplify the voices of those people in our community who don’t have one, particularly working-class young people, and create accessible spaces for everyone to enjoy. I am thrilled that my commitment to driving social change has been recognised by Co-op with tickets to a show next year. I plan on making the most of this opportunity and taking my best friend to see Jonas Brothers!”