Manchester’s Co-op Live reveals plans for canalside cafe

The UK’s biggest indoor arena is submitting a planning application for a canalside leisure and retail complex. 

Skiddle Staff

Date published: 9th Apr 2025

Co-op Live in Manchester has revealed plans to build a canalside cafe next to the venue. 

Co-op Live, the UK’s biggest indoor arena, opened in May and has since seen performances from Charli xcx, Billie Eilish, Iron Maiden, The Killers, Stevie Wonder, comedians, DJs, and more.

The new development would see a bar, cafe, eatery, and merchandise store built out from the venue, overlooking the Ashton Canal.

The development, proposed for the 23,500-seater Co-op Live in Manchester, would see a bar, eatery, and merchandise store built out from the venue’s south terrace and overlooking the Ashton Canal.

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If approved, the area would have the capacity for around 600 people and would be able to function as a standalone event space. 

The area would be open daily to residents and visitors, also providing event-goers somewhere to hang out before events. Accessible toilets, baby changing facilities, and a lift have all been included in the plans. 

On Thursday (10th April), Co-op Live will host an open exhibition so visitors can learn more about the proposal.

Co-op Live, a partnership between Oak View Group, City Football Group, Harry Styles, and Co-op, already features food and drink concessions, including restaurants, bars, lounges, and club spaces. 

 


 

Check out our What's On Guide to discover even more rowdy raves and sweaty gigs taking place over the coming weeks and months. For festivals, lifestyle events and more, head on over to our Things To Do page or be inspired by the event selections on our Inspire Me page.

 

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Header image credit: Co-op Live / Facebook.com