Developers aim to open Bristol's first arena by 2028
We've been catching up with YTL on the long awaited project
Last updated 13th Oct 2025
The first stage of demolition at Filton Airfield has been completed to make way for a 20,000-capacity arena.
The transformation of the historic Brabazon Hangars is gathering pace, with major demolition completed ready for construction to begin.
The venue is set to become one of the biggest in the UK, with a goal of putting Bristol "on the world stage."
"It’s an iconic thing that we’re trying to do," said John Thompson, CEO of YTL Construction.
"I believe that what we’re doing here is creating a legacy for the future.
"We want it to be a state-of-the-art, sustainable arena.
"We’re bringing in a huge amount of modern technology to make sure you’re served quickly and so those dreaded queues aren’t there."
The next phase of development, including a new accessible bridge, was recently backed by the government as one of the flagship new towns across the country.
Andrew Billingham, CEO of YTL Arena, said: "We are making great progress.
"To see the hangar stripped back to its original structure is both a striking reminder of its long history and a powerful signal of its future as a world-class arena.
"Every stage of dismantling brings us closer to welcoming A-list artists and their fans through the doors."