The first major QD2 development will be the creation of a purpose built arena. The focus is firmly on providing a national entertainment arena for Scotland with superb sightlines and excellent acoustics, seating up to 12,500 and with the flexibility to create numerous seating configurations for concerts, ice shows, sporting and other spectator events.
In April 2004, world-renowned architects Foster and partners, who also designed SECC’s iconic Clyde Auditorium, were appointed design team leader to create the new £62 million Arena.
The Arena design calls for a mixture of fixed tiered seats and flexible demountable seating systems so that a wide range of events can be accommodated: from the major international touring artists such as the Rolling Stones to children's events like Thomas the Tank Engine; and from ice shows to the majority of sporting events.
The Arena will not have a fixed stage. An event 'pad' under a steel grid system will allow shows to be configured to maximise the presentation to the audience.
Stages, when required, will be erected to the performers' requirements and the grid will accommodate the most ambitious sound and lighting rigs whilst keeping sightlines clear. When a more intimate atmosphere is required, capacity can be reduced without sacrificing either the ambience or the closeness of the audience to the performers.
The Arena will have full air-conditioning. A wide range of cafes, bars and restaurants will be created throughout the Arena to keep queuing times to a minimum while providing opportunities for visitors to eat before or after performances. SECC's objective is to create an outstanding visitor experience before, during and after each event.
Scotland's National Arena is being designed to become a world beating entertainment venue and making SECC unique in Europe by having a purpose built exhibition centre, conference centre and arena all on one site.