McLaren Appointed Lead Contractor for New Indoor Arena in Wales

Plans for Cardiff’s 16,500-capacity indoor arena, located in Wales (UK), have reached a significant milestone as Cardiff Council and the consortium — comprised of Live Nation Entertainment and Robertson Property — with the financial close on the project. This marks a key step forward in delivering a state-of-the-art venue that will attract world-class artists and entertainment to the city.

The consortium has appointed McLaren Construction as main contractor for the arena, and for a neighboring public plaza and hotel also included in the 30-acre Atlantic Wharf masterplan. The project team will include jobs for local people, including apprenticeships and work placements to help launch youngsters into construction careers.

Designed for music, with world-class acoustics and stunning sight lines, the arena is expected to have a transformative impact not only on Cardiff’s cultural scene, but also on its economic landscape. The arena will create over 1,000 jobs and, when open, attract more than 1 million visitors to the area annually.

On average, fans attending UK arena shows spend between £100-150 in the local economy outside the venue. This economic boost will have a significant impact on the regeneration of the local area, helping to kick-start further development in the area and revitalizing Cardiff Bay.

In addition to its economic contributions, the arena will support the city’s cultural and creative sector for years to come, playing a vital role in cementing Cardiff’s reputation as a premier destination on the international touring map.

Throughout the project there will be a strong focus on sustainability, social value and creating local employment opportunities in the Cardiff area, which will ensure the local community benefits from the project not only during the construction phase, but also when the venue is operational.

The three-year project is expected to be completed and ready to open in 2028.