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A crisis-hit new music venue is being “monitored closely” as contractors continue work to complete the £365 million (€426m) Co-op Live arena in Manchester.
The biggest indoor arena in the UK postponed its opening show for the third time as fans queued outside just minutes before doors opened on Wednesday evening for what was meant to be its first official event.
The 23,500-capacity venue aims to attract big-name acts away from London, as well as awards shows and sporting events.
The Eagles, Janet Jackson and Eric Clapton are due to play in the arena, but so far only a test event by Rick Astley has gone ahead.
It is understood, that a nozzle from the ventilation and air conditioning system fell to the ground from the ceiling shortly before last night’s concert.
No one was injured but the venue management decided to pull the plug on the performance from Bronx rapper A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie.
Thousands of fans, for the third time, were left disappointed after turning up for an event only for it to be cancelled.
The “embarrassing” fiasco has led to questions and criticism of how the arena’s opening has been handled.
Sacha Lord, appointed by Mayor Andy Burnham, as the night-time economy adviser for Greater Manchester said: “As with all event venues, the safety of staff and customers is the highest priority even if that means there are delays.
“We are monitoring the situation closely.”
The main contractor for the arena, the construction firm BAM said: “The safety of fans and staff is our number one priority.
“Unfortunately, in the run-up to last night’s concert, an issue arose that meant the difficult decision was made to cancel the event.
“We apologise for the inconvenience that this has caused for many.
“Our team continues to work diligently on completing works to the arena.”
Manchester City Council said the authority’s building control is yet to sign the building off, though this is routine procedure until all “snagging” is completed and venues can operate without a completion certificate.
Earlier opening shows had attendance slashed and eventually events pulled after an issue with emergency services communications systems.
The arena, run by US-based Oak View Group, has confirmed shows by US musician Olivia Rodrigo as part of her world tour would not now go ahead on 3 and 4 May.
A Keane concert billed for Sunday 5 May has also been cancelled “due to ongoing technical issues,” according to the British rock band.
On Instagram, the band said: “We’re absolutely gutted not to be able to celebrate 20 years of Hopes And Fears with you at the Co-Op Live on Sunday.
“This is due to ongoing technical issues at the venue and is entirely beyond our control.”
The statement added: “We are really disappointed that this has happened and are doing all we can to re-schedule the show.”
Take That have also said they will be moving their May shows from the Co-op Live to the AO Arena due to “ongoing technical issues”.
Tim Leiweke, chairman and chief executive of the Oak View Group, said: “The safety and security of all visiting and working on Co-op Live is our utmost priority, and we could not and will not run any event until it is absolutely safe to do so.
“I deeply apologise for the impact that this has had on ticket holders and fans.”
Co-op Live had already postponed its opening twice last week after rescheduling performances from Peter Kay and The Black Keys and had reassured fans that A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie and Rodrigo’s shows would be going ahead this week.
The arena’s general manager, Gary Roden, announced his resignation last week.
Source: Press Association
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