Everything happening with Co-op Live explained as arena apologises for cancelling another gig

Co-op Live is the UK's biggest and newest indoor arena, but it is still yet to open. It was originally scheduled to open its doors to the public on April 23, 2024, but due to a series of "technical issues", fans are being asked to wait a bit longer.

As of May 3, 2024, it still hasn't opened, causing more and more events to be put on hold. Peter Kay was the first act to grace the stage back in April, but just hours before his show was due to start, the new arena had to postpone it because of safety concerns with the venue.

At the time, the comedian took to X to tell his fans: "My apologies once again but unfortunately the Co-op Live still isn’t ready and so, as yet, remains untested for a large-scale audience. Consequently, they are having to reschedule my two shows yet again (I know I can’t believe it either)."

He added: "The first available dates the shows can reschedule to are as follows: Mon 29th April to Thurs 23rd May Tues 30th April to Fri 24th May Tickets will be transferred, or refunds given if the new dates aren't suitable. It's very disappointing but your safety is important, and I won't compromise that."

Singer Rick Astley was also due to perform a test gig to 11,000 arena workers and VIPs on April 21 to mark the opening of the new venue. However, it was cancelled last minute.

And now, the likes of Take That, Olivia Rodrigo, Keane and A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie are the latest to be affected by the venue's delayed opening. Rock band The Black Keys also saw their date at the venue postponed due to "extensive protocol of testing critical procedures to ensure all areas are ready for fans".

Olivia Rodrigo was pencilled in to perform her Guts World Tour at the Co-op Live arena on May 3-4. But she has announced that the two concerts in Manchester have now been cancelled.

In a post to her Instagram Story, she said: "Hello! I've been having such a great time in Europe so far and I'm sooooo disappointed that we're unable to perform in Manchester due to on-going venue-related technical issues. We're doing our best to reschedule the show.

"You can hold onto your tickets for further info or request a refund at your point of purchase. More info will be sent directly to ticket holders. I'm so bummed and I really hope to see you all soon."

Take That have been forced to move their shows too, with AO Arena confirming it will now host the band's five upcoming dates.

In a statement on its official X account, the Co-op Live told fans last night (May 2): "Following the events that led to the cancelled A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie show pn May 1, 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. We have worked with promoters to limit the impact on fans, keeping as many shows as possible in Manchester." The changes are as follows:

• A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie - May 1, 2024: Date and venue change.

• Olivia Rodrigo - May 3-4, 2024: Postponded, new dates to be announced.

• Keane - May 5, 2024: Postponed, new dates to be announced.

• Take That - May 7, 10, 11, 12, 2024: Venue change.

• Take That - May 8, 2024: Date and venue change. Take That's June dates remain unaffected.

The Co-op Live added: "Ticket holders for each event will be contacted by their point of purchase and refunds will be available if preferred. At this time, we do not expect further impact on our opening seasons.

"We are aware our axctions have frustrated and angered ticket holders. We know you've incurred significant disruption, and are finding a way to help make it right.

"We are taking the pause to think about the best ways to do that. Our naming rights partner, the Co-op Group has also expressed the importance of ensuring that the significant impact on ticketholders is recognsied and addressed, with more detail to follow soon."

Construction began in 2021, and the £365million venue is next door to football team Man City's Etihad Stadium. It has the largest maximum capacity of any indoor arena in the country, featuring 32 bars, restaurants and lounges inside - it can even fit as many as 23,500 ticket holders.