Yahoo News 'What an embarrassment' fans brand arena the 'Co-Flop live' after cancelled concerts
This week Take That announced a switch in venue for their planned gigs at the troubled Co-op Live arena.
After a series of cancelled and rescheduled shows, the band are set to make a move to the AO Arena next week, providing relief for their fans concerned about cancellations. In a statement, Take That said: "Given the ongoing technical issues around the opening of the Co-Op Live Arena we have taken the difficult decision to move our May shows to the AO Arena where we have enjoyed many great nights over the years.
"This is not a decision we have taken lightly, but we wanted to give our fans as much notice as possible." We're mindful many of you will already have travel and accommodation plans in place, so we have chosen this option to minimise inconvenience to as many people as possible."
READ MORE: 'End of an era' farewell party for Jurgen Klopp organised
They made the announcement on their social media channels, stating that the gig dates would change due to the current circumstances at Co-op Live, reports the Manchester Evening News.
Concerns regarding the suitability of future concerts at the location were raised after the organisers postponed A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie's performance that was scheduled for Wednesday night May 1 due to "technical issues".
The band concluded, reassuringly saying: "Our dates in June in Manchester remain unaffected." There has been a swift reaction from fans to the announcement, with many praising the "right decision" and stating that Co-op Live should be "ashamed".
On Take That's social media post, Joanne Quinn commented: "100% the right decision. Co-op arena ought to be ashamed of themselves! Thank you boys." Mark Allister said: "Well done TT for sorting out the Co-op arena mess and a big thank you to AO Arena for setting this amazing nights for all TT fans. Just proves local people have made this happen. Can't wait to see TT."
Ellen Balaban added: "Brilliant decision. Think this is the outcome we all wanted." Mandy Stewart criticised the further delays to opening of the Co-op live, commenting: "What an embarrassment."
Chris Mclean simply wrote: "The Co-Flop live." Many fans also expressed gratitude that the band did not cancel the gig. Lisa Bottomley said: "Excellent news your fans won't be disappointed- you have relighted my fire."
Lianna Deacon said: "Well done guys for taking this into your own hands and thinking of the fans!" Jacqui Mee added: "Great work boys! Thinking of the fans first."
Terry Heap commended: "Well done for making the decision now rather than risk it being cancelled at last minute! " Neila Caldwell also relievedly said: "Me and my friend have been stressed so much over this but now we can breatheand relax."
Get a free National Trust pass worth up to £50 for your family day out this spring
