City unveils space-age design of arena set to rank among world's best concert venues

THE space-age design for the Leeds Arena has been unveiled by the city council.

Described as a "striking honeycomb design" by the authority, it will feature coloured lights in the style of a kaleidoscope which will change colour and pattern to reflect the mood of the event taking place.

The 13,500-seat venue will become one of the top 10 places to play in the world, according to SMG Europe, the entertainment firm that will run the arena.

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SMG Europe's managing director John Sutherland said: "This is not another 'me-too' arena which you can find in many cities.

"The concept and innovative design will make Leeds one of the most exciting and innovative performance spaces in Europe.

"I am confident that under SMG's management, the Leeds Arena will be one of the top 10 places to play in the world, attracting top-class artists and up to a million visitors each year."

Council leader Keith Wakefield said: "The design has been carefully chosen to ensure the building is an exciting addition to the Leeds night-time scene helping to draw in visitors, boost the evening economy and act as a commanding gateway to the city centre."

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Other features of the design include outside seating areas, environmentally friendly features, good acoustics and glazed panels.

Inside, the seating is laid out like a fan which is intended to ensure every seat in the house has a good view of the stage.

There will be 24 executive boxes and a 100-seat restaurant.

Councillor Richard Lewis, executive board member responsible for development, said: "The internal design will give the best spectator experience of any arena in the country in terms of sightlines and acoustics. Add this with the vibrant, memorable external design, and we have a venue that is of international significance."

Work on the venue, at Clay Pit Lane near the Merrion shopping centre, is scheduled to begin later this year with a completion date in late 2012.

The detailed design was completed by Populous which has worked on Arsenal's Emirates stadium, the O2 arenas in London, Dublin and Berlin, and Wimbledon Centre Court roof.