Plans for 'world-class' 8,500-capacity arena in Edinburgh set for approval

Edinburgh is set to attract even more music stars with plans for a new 8,500-capacity “world-class” arena due to be approved.

AEG Europe, which owns the O2 Arena in London and are behind Taylor Swift’s sold out Murrayfield concerts, submitted an application for the proposed venue at Edinburgh Park to the city council in February.

The plans follow a series of in-person public consultation events in December and January.

Council officers have recommended that the 18,500 square metre site, which is expected to attract more than 700,000 visitors a year, be approved at a development management meeting on Wednesday.

The developers say the site could deliver £520m to the Edinburgh economy with more than 1,350 “employment opportunities” created as part of the plans.

A report for councillors stated: “The proposal is acceptable. There are no other material considerations that outweigh this conclusion.”

Alex Hill, president and CEO of AEG Europe said: “We are thrilled to be progressing with our plans for a spectacular new arena for Edinburgh. The city has long been renowned as a destination for global culture and one of the world’s best for the arts and live entertainment.

“We’re excited to build on this reputation and bring world-class live music and entertainment to Edinburgh, as well as investing in the wider Edinburgh Park community through the creation of 1000+ employment opportunities.”

Alistair Wood, executive vice president of real estate and development for AEG Europe, said: “We’re delighted by the feedback and valuable insights we’ve received during the extensive consultation and public exhibition process.

“It’s been fantastic to see such strong support for our plans, and therefore we are hopeful for a swift and clear decision following our planning application.”

Mr Wood added : “If we were able to secure planning permission, our focus would then immediately turn to identifying a Building Contractor and Naming Rights partner to bring this exciting project to life on site.”

The company is hoping to receive planning permission by June 2024, with a view of appointing an external contractor to commence work soon after.