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New stadium's link with the Olympics

13/10/2005

SALFORD'S new stadium will benefit from Olympic expertise thanks to the company behind the design.

Arupsport are applying their global experience to the Barton arena having recently designed the breathtaking Beijing 2008 Olympic stadium.

Manchester-based Steve Burrows is the project director for both the City of Salford Stadium and the Chinese equivalent, which will be showcased at the world's biggest sporting event.

When complete, Beijing's new stadium will be the world's largest enclosed space and will have a 100,000 seating capacity, but Steve says there will be similarities with Salford's proposed arena.

He said: "For the designers, the focus remains constant - to create fantastic views and thrilling environments for all. The Beijing and City of Salford stadiums are on the opposite side of the world from each other but still share some significant similarities.

"Both venues have been designed with the capacity to be used 365 days a year, maximising the opportunities for generating income and making a hugely significant contribution to their local area.

"Our work as the designers of the City of Manchester Stadium and Allianz Arena in Munich show that clients expect iconic facilities that are used on non-game days and project the right image for the future.

"Salford's stadium will not suffer in comparison to these other venues because it will be the very best facility of its type anywhere. For this we are delighted to be working with a client with foresight, imagination and a great location for a stadium.

"The plans for the Salford stadium are world class and we look forward to the planning decision being made so we can get started on what is one of ArupSport's most exciting projects."