After months of expectation, Co-op Live has again postponed its opening night after the dramatic resignation of its general manager.
The £365 million venue has confirmed it needs more time to ensure the ‘safest experience possible’ before opening.
A ‘disappointed’ Peter Kay reflected fans’ frustrations, taking to twitter to say ‘I know I can’t believe it either’ – a stark difference from his previous Twitter apology which mentioned ‘Bums & Tums’.
Peter Kay’s opener has now been pushed back to 23 May.
Yesterday, Co-op Live’s general manager Gary Roden quit after criticism for comments he made to the BBC – a rebuttal of a £1 levy on arena tickets as ‘too simplistic’, protesting that some venues are poorly run.
This continues a problematic saga for the venue which began with its challenging licensing application process in February.
The Music Venue Trust (MVT) was a strong objector in that committee, suggesting the application lacked clarity and said: “This application could have serious implications for our members.
“There is no impact report on existing venues and hospitality in the city.”
Previously the venue had to cancel 4,000 tickets to Rick Astley’s test event last Saturday, and is also pushing back The Black Key’s who were due to play on Saturday (27 April).
Co-op Live has promised that ticket holders’ passes will be valid for the rescheduled shows, and refunds will be given to those who cannot attend.
The first show will now be A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie on Wednesday, May 1.
Featured image credit Peter McDermot – New ‘Co-op Live’ Arena
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