McLaren appointed as main contractor for Cardiff’s new indoor arena

Plans for Cardiff’s highly anticipated 16,500 capacity indoor arena have reached a significant milestone as Cardiff Council and the consortium comprised of Live Nation Entertainment and Robertson Property today announced financial close on the project.

The announcement marks a key step forward in delivering a state-of-the-art venue that will attract world-class artists and entertainment to the city.

The consortium has appointed McLaren Construction as main contractor for the arena and for a neighbouring public plaza and hotel also included in the 30-acre Atlantic Wharf masterplan. McLaren’s team will include jobs for local people, including apprenticeships and work placements to help launch youngsters into construction careers.

Designed for music, with world class acoustics and stunning sight lines, the arena is expected to have a transformative impact not only on Cardiff’s cultural scene, but also on its economic landscape. The arena will create over 1,000 jobs and, when open, attract more than one million visitors to the area annually.

On average, fans attending UK arena shows spend between £100-£150 in the local economy outside the venue. This economic boost will have a significant impact on the regeneration of the local area, helping to kick-start further development in the area and revitalising Cardiff Bay.

In addition to its economic contributions, the arena will support the city’s cultural and creative sector for years to come, playing a vital role in cementing Cardiff’s reputation as a premier destination on the international touring map.

Throughout the project there will be a strong focus on sustainability, social value and creating local employment opportunities in the Cardiff area, which will ensure that the local community benefits from the project not only during the construction phase, but also when the venue is operational.

Construction is due to start this summer, with the grand opening planned for 2028.

Graham Walters, SVP Arena &Venue Development, Live Nation, said: “The new arena in Cardiff is a landmark project for us, delivering on Live Nation’s goal to develop venues in areas where there is clear consumer demand for more live entertainment. Today’s announcement brings us one step closer to opening the doors to fans on the first night.”

Elliot Robertson, Chief Executive Officer, Robertson Group, said: "The Cardiff Arena marks a transformative moment for the city, bringing world-class live entertainment to the city while driving significant economic and social benefits. This project is more than just a venue; it’s a catalyst for growth, creating over a thousand jobs, boosting local businesses, and solidifying Cardiff’s position as a cultural and creative hub on the global stage.”

Cardiff Council Leader, Cllr Huw Thomas, added: “This arena will transform Cardiff’s visitor economy in a way nothing has since the stadium opened in 1999. It’s not just about the bricks and mortar; it’s about underpinning and enhancing Cardiff’s status as a vibrant, dynamic destination for music and culture. The project will ensure that Cardiff continues to thrive as a hub of creativity and innovation. It is the cornerstone of our Music City strategy, which aims to support every part of Cardiff’s music ecosystem – from musicians to producers, promoters, and venues. But crucially, this project will drive economic growth and social value, particularly in the area surrounding the arena, creating jobs and lifting horizons in some of Wales’ most economically-challenged communities. It is for all these reasons that the Arena has been a priority for this Council administration for over a decade, and why I’m delighted that this decisive milestone has now been achieved.”

Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: "Our creative industries are world-leading, and this is another clear vote of confidence in our economy and the UK’s position as a global creative superpower. Our modern Industrial Strategy is a bold plan for national renewal, with an aim to significantly increase investment into our creative industries. I’m delighted this new arena will create over 1000 new jobs, boosting the Welsh economy, local community, and backing our Plan for Change."

Vince Lydon, Managing Director of Construction Management and Specialist Projects at McLaren Construction, comments: “This is a key site for revitalising Cardiff Bay and we have the opportunity to turn what is largely a surface car park into a public plaza and a venue that brings 1.5 million people to the bay each year. A key part of McLaren’s plans is that we employ local people and local suppliers as part of our team so that the construction phase of the project leaves a strong legacy in skills and employment.”