Home to the UK’s largest indoor arena with a capacity of 23,500, the Co-Op Live Arena has been one of the most impressive large-scale projects of its type that Measom have been involved in. Our scope of works includes the full drylining package, partition walls, plastering, MF ceiling and lighting bulkheads on both Level 2 and Level 3. All aspects were built to a high-performance specification, with rigorous standards for fire and acoustic ratings, security, crowd loadings, and large deflections.
“Measom undertook drylining and ceiling packages on the Co-Op Live Project, the UKs largest arena. Their knowledge and expertise were vital in ensuring this was a successful relationship on an incredibly challenging project. Measom offered technical support and liaised with the architectural team to offer design solutions prior to issues being faced on site. They constantly offer a proactive, user-friendly approach and ensure works are completed to the highest of standards..” – Josh Kendall, BAM Project Manager
We provided valuable design support by working closely with the client, their design team and British Gypsum from the early stages. Utilising our 90 years of expertise in drylining, plastering and various ceiling systems, we recommended to use optimal British Gypsum products that aligned with the arena’s stringent safety and acoustic requirements. We also assisted in refining technical details, ensuring that the proposed designs were not only compliant with regulations but also feasible within the challenging build environment. This collaborative approach helped streamline the construction process and ensured a seamless integration of high-performance solutions.
Gallery Suites
Overlooking the arena, the gallery suite offers an exclusive dining and bar experience for members only. The client had a clear vision for this space, aiming to create a bohemian vibe while maintaining a luxurious feel. The ceiling was intended to be the room’s key feature, and to achieve this, we created specialist vaulted ceilings with curved apertures. Every measurement was taken to perfection to deliver a flawless finish.
To meet acoustic requirements, we installed MF ceilings with vertical bulkheads using British Gypsum Rigitone ceiling boards. The partition walls were also built with acoustic detailing and a 90-minute fire rating. Additionally, we were responsible for the column encasements.
VIP Private Suites
Across from the gallery suites are 28 VIP private suites, the most exclusive seats in the arena, each featuring a personal kitchen, bar area, and private viewing platform. Designed to deliver a five-star experience, we played a key role in creating the striking lighting detail by installing MF ceilings with an upstand and forming an inverted bulkhead to support the lights. It was important that this was measured precisely to give a flawless finish. The 90-minute fire partitions were also constructed with high acoustic performance to meet the project specifications, built to withstand the heavy crowd loadings.
All the suites are connected by a long corridor formed with fire rated walls. We installed MF ceilings with a number of access hatches to allow other contractors to easily fit the necessary services.
Bars and Pop-Up Shops
The Co-Op Arena contains 32 bars and six pop up shops. We formed the partition walls to construct all the bars and the bar settings throughout the arena. Robust and heavy-duty walls were required in order to withstand the strong steel framework used to display all the bottles. The client wanted to make sure this space was blast resistant therefore we installed a specialist head detail bracket and external wall linings to meet this requirement.
For the pop-up shops, where guests can purchase drinks and snacks, we constructed the partition walls and created bulkheads to ensure both a smooth and durable recess for the fridges and to support the specialist bronze feature above them. While another contractor installed the mirrored ceilings, we installed MF ceilings to accommodate the design as per the client’s specification.
Toilets
Throughout level 2 and 3, Measom were contracted to undertake the partition walls, MF ceilings and all cubicle dividers in the toilets. During the design phase, it was identified that the ceilings would need to accommodate a significant number of services, which meant multiple contractors would require frequent access to these areas. This posed potential challenges to the integrity of our work, along with health and safety concerns. To address these issues, we installed I stud ceilings, providing easy access for contractors while ensuring the high standard of our work remained intact.
“Overseeing the drylining, plastering, and MF ceiling works at the Co-Op Live Arena for BAM was both a challenging and rewarding experience. The intricate design requirements, particularly in ensuring fire strategy and optimal acoustics are achieved, demanded careful planning and execution. Working with British Gypsum’s high-performance systems allowed us to meet these challenges head-on, delivering robust solutions for walls and ceilings. Seeing the project come together and knowing we met the stringent specifications was incredibly fulfilling, and it was a privilege to contribute to such a landmark venue..” – Brett Davis, Measom Contracts Manager
Although this project has been challenging at times, we have delivered a high-quality, visually appealing solution that meets the client’s requirements and exceeds the client’s expectations. By collaborating closely with BAM and providing design support, we successfully overcame challenges and delivered innovative solutions. We are proud to have played a key role in completing the UK’s largest indoor arena, showcasing Measom’s commitment to precision, safety, and quality in every aspect.