AEG Presents UK and Watford Borough Council have signed contracts for the new Watford Colosseum, due to reopen in 2025, with the diary officially opening for bookings from today...
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Watford Borough Council has announced its official contract signing with AEG Presents UK, a renowned global venue operator and concert promoter, to manage and bring a new era of entertainment to Watford Colosseum when it reopens in 2025.
With the partnership formally agreed, AEG Presents UK now has the green light to kickstart the programme and officially open the diary for bookings for the grand reopening and beyond. This exciting development follows the extensive refurbishment effort by the council – despite promised funding from government yet to be delivered - to enhance the venue before it opens its doors again.
AEG Presents UK has a proven track record of successful venue management in the UK including Eventim Apollo and indigo at The O2 in London, and the recently revamped University of Wolverhampton at The Halls. The Colosseum is now on the AEG Presents UK roster, and it will not only host first-class entertainment, but also open its doors to local community organisations, providing a unique blend of global and local excellence.
Photocaption: Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, Steve Homer, CEO at AEG Presents UK and Paul Stacey, Associate Director of Environment and Communities at Watford Borough Council
Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, said: "This is great news for Watford. AEG Presents UK are globally acclaimed for outstanding venues and live performances. The project not only preserves Watford's heritage but also creates job opportunities and supports local businesses.
“Through careful management, the council has managed to secure the future of the Colosseum, despite not yet receiving the £16million of Levelling Up Funding promised by the last government almost a year ago. This agreed funding, which we are waiting for the new government to honour, is crucial to delivering the success of the Town Hall Quarter programme.
“With the promised funding, this regeneration scheme is set to deliver huge benefits for Watford and the surrounding areas, while also supporting national ambitions around economic growth and the creation of new homes.”
Steve Homer, CEO at AEG Presents UK, said: "We are honoured to join forces with the council and contribute our expertise to Watford Colosseum's evolution. AEG Presents UK is committed to creating unforgettable experiences, and with this partnership, we'll not only bring top-tier entertainment to the area, but we will also be supporting the local community. We look forward to curating an eclectic programme that resonates with Watford's residents and visitors alike.”
The ongoing upgrades to Watford Colosseum focus on sustainability and preservation of the venue's rich history. When complete, this revitalisation project will inject just under £2million into the local economy annually, creating new job and volunteer opportunities.
Upon the reopening of the venue, visitors can expect a transformed space, featuring a brand-new stage, refurbished bars, reopened main entrance, enhanced wayfinding, and a comprehensive refurbishment of all areas.
The Colosseum represents a crucial element of the council's ambitious 10-year Town Hall Quarter programme, which via eight interconnected projects aims to stimulate substantial investment in the area over the next decade. For more information, visit watfordtownhallquarter.com.
For those eager to stay informed about the latest updates and upcoming events, visit watfordcolosseum.co.uk and sign up to the mailing list.
