Co-op Live, the largest arena in the UK, has announced it will be opening a new, canal-side development on the south terrace immediately adjacent to the Manchester venue. The development aims to offer both visitors and the community a space to socialise and to work, and forms part of the ongoing expansion of the Etihad Campus.
Designed in line with the Co-op Live exterior, the 4,000 sq ft space will be home to a café, bar and kitchen alongside a merchandise store open on event days. With the ability to host around 500 people, the development can also be used as a second standalone event space for private celebrations, creative workshops and corporate gatherings.
The news comes as Co-op Live trials the canal-side development this weekend as a fan zone for the Manchester Derby. The event has space for up to 2,000 Blues and is completely free to attend – there will be a live DJ and the chance to hear from special guest speakers.
Co-op Live already has an array of food and drink concessions, including bars, premium restaurants, lounges, and club spaces, however, this development would give those not attending gigs at the arena access to some form of hospitality facilities.
Open from September 15, Co-op Live’s canalside bar at the Eithad Campus includes daily access to the café and bar for residents and visitors, community and private hire use, as well as pre-event access for ticket holders. In keeping with the venue’s commitment to accessibility, dedicated toilets, accessible and baby change areas, and an accessible lift have all been included within the plans.
By day, Canalside will include free Wi-Fi and ample plug points in its cafe for co-working as well as a 25p discount available for those with reusable cups. Plus, parking is available free of charge on non-event days.
By night on event days, it transforms into a buzzing bar, creating the perfect meeting place exclusively for ticket holders heading into Co-op Live. On select dates, Co-op Live will also be opening its doors to their east section for access to added facilities, including to Co-op’s Canalside concession.
The two-floor space features indoor and outdoor seating, including a part-covered terrace on both levels, as well as full accessibility with lifts and ramps, and dog-friendly access.
For more information about Canalside, including private booking enquiries, head here.