Big plans for arena after sale

A LONDON bar operator is to take over an open-air entertainment venue in Birmingham.

Adventure Bar Group will operate the site previously occupied by Digbeth Arena, in Lower Trinity Street, where it plans to run a host of live events.

It has now launched a recruitment drive for 50 staff ahead of a planned launch on April 12 when the next phase of the roadmap out of lockdown commences.

The 15,000 sq ft venue, which is bounded by railway arches, will have a capacity of 2,500 people and be called ‘Luna Springs’ – nod to Birmingham’s famed Lunar Society during the Industrial Revolution.

The first phase of operations would enable 400 guests to attend with bottomless brunches, cocktails and live DJs on offer, ahead of a full opening during the summer.

Plans include live music, mass karaoke, mini festivals, televised large-screen sport, outdoor cinema and full-moon parties.

Adventure Bar Group runs a string of sites across the capital but also owns cocktail bar Tonight Josephine opposite Birmingham

New Street station.

Co-founder Tom Kidd said: “We can’t wait to introduce Luna Springs to Birmingham. Our aim is to create a hub of experience from cocktails to the very best local street food vendors as well as musical talent and supporting local events and movements.

“We want to be a part of the fabric of the city and the must-visit venue this summer.”

Digbeth Arena was previously known as Rainbow Arena but its licence was revoked in November 2017 after a drug-related death.