Work on the £26m redevelopment of Birmingham’s National Indoor Arena (NIA) starts this month, following the appointment of contractor BAM Construction.

The most dramatic element of the new look will be a glass-fronted façade, adding 5,926sq m of space, but all areas of the venue will be touched by the programme. 

Phase 1 will focus on key backstage areas, including control room, medical and storage facilities, as well as production offices, crew catering facilities and dressing rooms.

Phase 2, in 2014, will be about the hospitality suites, concourse expansion, improved circulation areas and the all important external façade.

“The redevelopment of the NIA is responding to the changing expectations from audiences on their pre and post show experience,” Phil Mead, managing director of arenas, NEC Group, said. 

“As well as interaction at the venue before and after events, and the sharing of experiences on social media, they want great food and beverage offerings, comfort, the latest technology and a great sense of arrival as part of their visit.”

The project is due for completion at the end of next year.

Work on the £26m redevelopment of Birmingham’s National Indoor Arena (NIA) starts this month, following the appointment of contractor BAM Construction.

The most dramatic element of the new look will be a glass-fronted façade, adding 5,926sq m of space, but all areas of the venue will be touched by the programme. 

Phase 1 will focus on key backstage areas, including control room, medical and storage facilities, as well as production offices, crew catering facilities and dressing rooms.

Phase 2, in 2014, will be about the hospitality suites, concourse expansion, improved circulation areas and the all important external façade.

“The redevelopment of the NIA is responding to the changing expectations from audiences on their pre and post show experience,” Phil Mead, managing director of arenas, NEC Group, said. 

“As well as interaction at the venue before and after events, and the sharing of experiences on social media, they want great food and beverage offerings, comfort, the latest technology and a great sense of arrival as part of their visit.”

The project is due for completion at the end of next year.