AWM Grant Completes £29million Funding of Birmingham's LG Arena

December 9 2008

The final piece of funding has been secured for the £29million refurbishment of Birmingham’s LG Arena, it was announced today.

Regional development agency Advantage West Midlands has confirmed it will grant £3million towards the multimillion redevelopment of the venue, formerly The NEC Arena.

The LG Arena was renamed in September following a sponsorship deal with global electronic giants LG Electronics and phase one of building work has now started on building a brand new iconic tower.

The creation of the 28-metre-tower feature is part of the £14 million rebuild of the forum. This is the first major milestone in the project that will make the LG Arena a 21st century world class visitor attraction.

Regional contractors GF Tomlinson Birmingham Ltd are managing the accelerated work programme, which will finish in June next year in time for the Rotary International Convention.

The LG Arena was renamed in September following a sponsorship deal with global electronic giants LG Electronics and the revamped forum building will feature brand new bars, hospitality, and other essential customer facilities.

The LG Arena will continue the legacy that The NEC Arena began on opening 28 years ago - since welcoming millions of visitors through its doors.

The sponsorship deal with LG, famed for its motto “Life’s Good”, will help support repayment of a £25million loan provided by Birmingham City Council

The multi-million pound improvement works are essential to improve ageing facilities and infrastructure and help the venue compete in a global marketplace.

Phil Mead, Managing Director of Arenas, The NEC Group, said: “I would like to thank AWM for this vital grant. It is wonderful news to have been awarded the final piece of funding needed for this exciting redevelopment.

“This month also marks an exciting first milestone in this vital project. With this work now underway, the reality of the LG Arena is one step closer.

“The new LG Arena will be a groundbreaking must visit venue fit for any type of event and ensure that Birmingham stays firmly on the map as a must stop city on major UK and international tours.

“We have listened to our visitors, our artists, and our promoters and we are building a first class venue with a much larger capacity that caters for tomorrow’s audiences.

“Increased revenue from the innovative new LG Arena will also help protect the vital economic impact that The NEC Group creates in the region.

Roger Allonby, Head of Tourism and Culture at Advantage West Midlands, said: “The NEC Group has an extensive track record in attracting major entertainment events, exhibitions and conferences, generating millions of pounds for the regional economy and attracting thousands of visitors.

“The enhanced LG Arena will boost Birmingham’s competitiveness as a global city and the West Midlands’ reputation as world class region where people and businesses choose to connect.”

Andrew Warner, marketing director, LG UK and Ireland said: “This is an exciting juncture for us as we begin to see the new LG Arena take shape. It is great for us to be involved in such a partnership.  

“Once refurbishment is complete this venue will offer visitors a vastly improved entertainment experience.   LG will also be able to interact with visitors and customers in new and engaging ways.”

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