Bristol City Council and the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) have launched a competition to design a Bristol arena.

The project is a large indoor multipurpose arena, to be located on the former diesel depot site close to Temple Meads railway station in central Bristol. It is hoped the Arena will open in the summer of 2017.

Multi-disciplinary teams will have the opportunity to design the 12,000 capacity entertainment arena. The successful design team will have architectural, structural and building engineering capabilities as well as experience within the performance venue field and significant knowledge of the creation and development of urban spaces.


George Ferguson, Mayor of Bristol said: "The Bristol Arena is key to the city region's future and will act as a major catalyst to the development of the Temple Quarter Enterprise Zone. We have to grasp the opportunity to design a building that not only works really effectively but is an inspiring place that enriches this new quarter of the city.

"I want the Bristol Arena to become the arena of choice for performers, as well as offering an excellent visitor experience. As an architect I recognise that the design of the building is critical in achieving this. RIBA Competitions has helped to deliver some of the most outstanding buildings around the UK and is well placed to help us to secure the best possible design team."

(CD/MH)