Councillors have approved plans for a major new concert venue at Edinburgh Park, paving the way for the city’s first large-scale indoor arena.

The 8,500-capacity arena is set to open in 2028 and will become a landmark venue for Edinburgh, hosting an estimated 150 events per year including concerts, comedy, sport and festivals. The development is expected to attract around 700,000 visitors annually.

Delivered by AEG Europe – the operator behind London’s The O₂ Arena and Berlin’s Uber Arena – in partnership with developers Parabola, the new arena will cover 18,500 square metres and be located directly beside Edinburgh Park’s train and tram stations.

The project is anticipated to create 250 jobs within the arena itself and a further 700 roles across the wider area. Designed with sustainability in mind, the venue aims to be among the most efficient arenas of its kind worldwide.

The decision marks a significant milestone in the continued transformation of Edinburgh Park, further enhancing its role as a vibrant destination for living, working and entertainment.