Early-concept plans have been revealed for a new 4,500-capacity arena in the English town of Basildon, Essex.
The venue, which has tentatively been named South Essex Arena, would form part of a wide-ranging development. The arena would feature up to 3,500 seats, with capacity of up to 4,500 including standing.
The arena would hold major events, business events and conferences and it is hoped the venue would help create a sports, arts and entertainment hub in the town. The arena will also look to champion Basildon’s creative, IT and advanced manufacturing sectors during the construction and operation stages.
The arena will also incorporate a smaller studio theatre and music centre, with the total area of the venue likely to be around 18,500 square metres. A foyer/public area would be open all day and include a café, bar, informal workspaces and occasional performances and events.
A spokesperson for Basildon Borough Council told TheStadiumBusiness.com: “The South Essex Arena is at an early concept stage, and is just one facet of a comprehensive, large scale, and evolving master plan.
“This covers new high-quality homes, shops, leisure, workspace, and civic space. We want to redefine what the town centre offers, meeting the needs for housing, retail, leisure and business opportunities.
“This is about a total transformation – a reimagining of what Basildon town centre stands for – its purpose and its character. And we know that this kind of change will only work if we co-design it with the people who use the space: our residents, our businesses and our public sector partners.
“The concept-development stage of the arena plan is ongoing and includes considerations for a venue to host conferences and events, music, and a range of national and international sporting events.”
A timeline for the project has not been outlined but Essex Live reported that the arena is expected to be completed by the end of 2022.
Image: Basildon Borough Council
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