Plans for 4,000 capacity ‘digital arena’ for esports on Dundee’s waterfront
Plans are being drafted for a “multi-purpose digital arena” seating 4,000 people that would form part of Dundee’s £1 billion waterfront regeneration.
The new development is proposed for a key site next to Slessor Gardens close to the River Tay. An announcement by Northern Lights Arena Europe (NLAE) of an 18-month exclusivity agreement with Dundee City Council allows the company to progress initial design concepts, strategic advice and expertise.
The arena could provide educational, economic, entertainment and employment opportunities for the city.
Project backers say that it would provide 4,000 seats, an“es ports academy” for further and higher education, alongside conventional leisure, indoor sporting events, retail and live/ workspace.
NLAE is already working with A bert ay University on proposals for the site, located near the landmark V&A design museum.
Abertay intends to develop a range of degree courses related to the global esports jobs market, with students gaining access to“be spoke facilities” within the arena complex. The university’ s local college partner, Dundee & Angus College, would also be part of the project.
Chris Turner, chief executive of NLAE, said: “We have been impressed with the for ward-looking approach of Dundee City Council and their ambition to have a world-class public space at the heart of Dundee .”
Mark Flynn, convener of Dundee City Council’ s city development committee, said: “Agreeing an exclusivity arrangement with NLAE is the best way forward to allow what is an exciting and potentially winning development the time and space needed to undertake feasibility studies and advance outline proposals.”
Simon Hewitt, Principal of Dundee and Angus College, said :“This is an amazing opportunity for the city and the wider region to build on the fantastic educational partnerships and experiences we already provide within the creative sector.”