Christopher BarrettLobbying group the Arena Resilience Alliance (ARA), an offshoot of the European Arenas Association (EAA), has launched a manifesto outlining what it believes to be the steps needed for the safe return of live events across Europe.
The Rationale for a Resilient Return manifesto, which was launched at ARA’s virtual conference – #AGameofTwoHalves: The Return Leg, consists of a four-point action plan:
Creation of an advisory body
ARA said it is proposing the creation of an advisory body to work in tandem with European political interest groups to guide and instruct on the workings of the live events ecosystem and maximise resource for an effective return.
A hub for return and for change
ARA said its members’ venues can provide the physical space the live events ecosystem needs to build towards a safe return: “A space for practice, for collaboration, for communities, and for medically conditioned tests that will measure the feasibility and act as a catalyst for the return of fan-attended events.”
Adapting for the future of live events
ARA said it is ready to “lead the discussion” on the need for arenas to provide the physical space for the development of new environmentally sustainable and digital practices within the context of the provision of community-based and fan-based group gatherings.
A safe and sustainable post-Covid-19 Ecosystem
ARA said the sector must embrace the opportunity to get arenas back working for communities: “We must preserve the key elements of Europe’s cultural identity by bringing back live music and sporting events. We must bring the different parts of the ecosystem together to create safer, greener and more efficient environments where European citizens can meet to relax, socialise and enjoy themselves.”
ARA co-founder and CEO of The Odyssey Trust, owners of The SSE Arena, Belfast, said, “As the advocacy platform for European arenas, the ARA’s manifesto will be an important tool as we prepare for a return to live events, whilst working to protect the health and wellbeing of our communities and the sustainability of our industry.”