Construction work begins on long-awaited arena

Construction work to convert historic 1940s hangars in which Concorde was built into a long-awaited music venue has finally begun.

A ceremony earlier marked the "milestone" in building the 20,000-capacity YTL Arena at the Brabazon Hangars at Filton Airfield in Bristol.

The scheme, which was earmarked for completion in 2024, has faced many issues including problems with planning and transport infrastructure and subsequent delays.

John Thompson, CEO of YTL Construction UK, the company behind the construction project, said there would be "a real transformation" at the site within the next 18 months, which will see the building's roof replaced and the construction of stands.

"Building one of these areas is really complex. It's been a really challenging, but exciting thing," he added.

Thompson said: "We really want to respect the overall site and nod to some of the fantastic things that have been achieved on this historic site."

Once complete, performers will be able to stand where Concorde was built, he said.

"We're really keen to employ locally [for construction]. What better project to come and join.

"We are talking about building a legacy for the future," he added.

YTL Live's chief executive Andrew Billingham said the new venue would hold more than 20,000 visitors.

"There is an incredible amount of work going on. These buildings are over 80 years old. It's really important to YTL that we preserve what they were here for previously," he said.

He went on to explain the roof had been removed so a more acoustically sound one could be installed.

"This is a key milestone for us," he added.

The arena is expected to open in 2028.

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