The Scottish Exhibition + Conference Centre has announced leading energy supplier Scottish Hydro as the naming rights partner of its new purpose built entertainment arena which will be completed in 2013.
The Scottish Hydro Arena - already being
referred to as "The Hydro" - is due to open in Spring 2013 and will
play host to national and international music mega stars as well as
global entertainment and sporting events.
Scottish Hydro is committing to investing £1.5 million per year
over the next 10 years in this ground breaking venue for
Scotland.
With a seating capacity of 12,000 The Hydro will
augment the SECC's existing facilities, and will play host to
around 140 events per annum. Aspiring to attract an audience
of 1 million visitors each year, The Hydro
expects to be in the top 5 busiest indoor music arenas in the world
alongside such iconic venues as Madison Square Gardens and The O2
arena, The Hydro has the potential to inject £131 million
annually into the local economy.
Scotland has a real passion for music, with 59% of the
population attending live music events each year, ranking higher
than any other part of the UK.
Ian Marchant, Chief Executive of SSE (Scottish and Southern
Energy) said: "The Scottish Hydro Arena is a significant investment
for us and shows the strength of our commitment to Scotland.
"This exciting partnership will enable us to provide an array of
attractive benefits to our customers and staff right across the
country, bringing an entertainment experience to Glasgow we are all
very proud of. We've supported music events that people have
enjoyed for some time and, now we're involved on a larger stage, it
means we can bring the experience to many more people."
To keep track of The Scottish Hydro Arena's progress and sign up
for news alerts, go to www.thehydro.com.