Footage taken inside the trouble-hit Co-op Live arena show loose cables, ditched hard hats and worker's documents laid strewn about the venue.
The shocking video, uploaded to TikTok by user adannae_diaries, showed the Manchester venue during a test event last month. In the clip, exposed wiring could be seen before more loose cables and ditched hard hats were seen - highlighting ongoing issues ahead of the venue's scheduled official opening.
More segments showed cables being taped to the wall, while other wires were left exposed close to the wall. Hard hats were also ditched close to attendees for the test event with building documents left within arms reach. The crisis hit £365million venue, the biggest in Britain, was intended to rival London's 02 arena. But its 23,500 seats have been left empty with acts being cancelled throughout its intended opening week.
Building delays as well as issues with electrical equipment and air conditioning have halted performances, often at the last minute. Take That were among the acts who cancelled their performance at the venue, moving their May show to the city's AO arena. The video has attracted an estimated 1.1million views and more than 53,000 likes since it was uploaded to TikTok on April 21. Many who commented on the video shared their views about the apparent state of the venue.
ColourPopLiverpool said: "Everyone here desperate to defend it as a test event. The test element is for training staff, not the infrastructure. Wires taped to the walls and plans left out are not part of the test scenario." Nick James added: "Everyone saying it's a safe open and a test event etc. Doesn't mean that basic safety is negotiable."
Manchester Co-op Live postpones another show after Peter Kay fury
Cables were seen taped to the wall (@adannae_diaries/TikTok)But there were others who defended venue operators in the comment section. L said: "It’s not even open yet but you knew that when you filmed this…anything for clicks and likes tho right?"
Oak View Group, who operate Co-op Live, said in a May 2 statement it would take a "short pause" to events at the venue. It said: "We have decided to take a short pause to events at Co-op Live to fully ensure the safety and security of fans and artists visiting the venue. This time will allow for an independent inspection of all elements of the arena ceiling. As a result, the following acts have been cancelled or postponed:
- Olivia Rodrigo - May 4 show postponed with new dates to be announced
- Keane - May 5 show postponed with new dates to be announced
- Take That -May 7, 10, 11, 12 venue change and May 8 date and venue change
Oak View Group said it did not expect any further impact on its opening season. "We are aware our actions have frustrated and angered ticket holders," the statement added. The Mirror has contacted Oak View Group for comment.
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