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{{Short description|Entertainment district in London, England}} | |||
{{About|the entertainment district incorporating the former Millennium Dome|the indoor arena within it|The O2 Arena (London)|its counterpart in Ireland|The O2 (Dublin)|other uses|O2 (disambiguation){{!}}O2}} | |||
{{About|the entertainment district incorporating the former Millennium Dome|the indoor arena within it|The O2 Arena|other uses|O2 (disambiguation)}} | |||
{{Redirect|IndigO2|the Indigo² workstation by Silicon Graphics|SGI Indigo² and Challenge M}} | |||
{{Use British English|date=May 2011}} | {{Use British English|date=May 2011}} | ||
{{Use dmy dates|date= |
{{Use dmy dates|date=July 2024}} | ||
{{ |
{{coord|51|30|10.14|N|0|0|11.22|E|type:landmark_region:GB_scale:5000|display=title}} | ||
{{Infobox building | {{Infobox building | ||
|name=The |
| name = The O2 | ||
|image |
| image = O2 Arena (9499773307).jpg | ||
| caption = The O2 pictured in 2013 | |||
|building_type=Entertainment District | |||
| building_type = Entertainment venue | |||
|former_names= ] | |||
| former_names = ] (2000) | |||
|architectural_style=Dome | |||
| architectural_style = Dome/tent | |||
|structural_system=Steel & tensioned fabric | |||
| structural_system = Steel, tension fabric | |||
|location=The O2<br />Drawdock Road / Millennium Way<br /> Greenwich Peninsula<br /> North Greenwich<br /> London, SE10 0BB<br /> England | |||
| location = ]<br>], England | |||
|owner= English Partnerships (Ultimate owner of Dome and Land) | |||
| owner = ]<ref>H.M. Land Registry Title Deed TGL1608</ref> | |||
|current_tenants= Anschutz Entertainment Group Europe (dome site sub-leased by Meridian Delta and arena leased by English Partnerships) | |||
| current_tenants = ] | |||
|completion_date=1999 (mast-supported canopy)<br />2007 (redevelopment of The O2 and surrounding area have been partially completed prior to opening) | |||
| completion_date = {{Start date|1999|12|31|df=yes}}<br>(original usage) | |||
|height= 52 metres at its highest point (central point within canopy) <br/> 100m (steel masts) | |||
| |
| height = 52 m (central point within canopy)<br>100 m (steel masts) | ||
| diameter = 365 m (canopy overall)<br>320 m (internal canopy) | |||
|other_dimensions= 1 km (circumference of canopy) | |||
|opening_date=2007 | | opening_date = {{Start date|2007|06|24|df=yes}}<br>(current usage) | ||
|architect=] (canopy)<br |
| architect = ] (canopy)<br>] (redeveloped interior) | ||
|structural_engineer=] |
| structural_engineer = ] | ||
|services_engineer= |
| services_engineer = BuroHappold Engineering (canopy)<br>M-E Engineers (redeveloped interior) | ||
|awards=]<br |
| awards = ]<br>MacRobert Award | ||
| |
| website = {{URL|theo2.co.uk}} | ||
}} | }} | ||
'''The O2''' (formerly known as the ]) is a large entertainment district on the ] in South East London, England, including an ], a music club, a ] cinema, an exhibition space, ], bars, restaurants, and a guided tour to the top of the O2. It was built largely within the former ], a large dome-shaped canopy built to house an exhibition celebrating the turn of the third millennium; consequently ''The Dome'' remains a name in common usage for the venue. It is sometimes referred to as ], but that name properly refers to the indoor arena within The O2. Naming rights to the district were purchased by the mobile telephone provider ] from its developers, ] (AEG), during the development of the district. AEG owns the long-term lease on the O2 Arena and surrounding leisure space. | |||
From the closure of the original ] exhibition occupying the site, several ways of reusing the Millennium Dome's shell were proposed and then rejected. The renaming of the Dome in 2005 gave publicity to its transition into an entertainment district. The Dome's shell remained in situ, but its interior and the area around ], the QE2 pier and the main entrance area were completely redeveloped. | |||
'''The O2''', visually typeset in branding as '''The O<sub>2</sub>''', is a large entertainment district on the ] in South East London, England, including an ], a music club, a ] cinema, an exhibition space, piazzas, bars and restaurants. It was built largely within the former ], a large dome-shaped building built to house an exhibition celebrating the turn of the third millennium; as such, ''The Dome'' remains a name in common usage for the venue. | |||
The area is served by North Greenwich tube station on the ], which was opened just before the millennium exhibition, and by ] routes. ] operate a river boat service for ]; the present tenants, AEG, purchased Thames Clippers in order to provide river links between ] and The O2. As well as a commuter service, Thames Clippers operates the ] service. Local buses also serve the station and the nearby O2. | |||
It is often referred by various names: the O2 Dome; the ], which properly refers to an unrelated shopping centre on ]; or ], which properly refers to a smaller indoor arena within The O2. Naming rights to the district were purchased by O2 plc (now ] plc) from its developers, ] (AEG), during the development of the district. AEG owns the long-term lease on the O2 Arena and surrounding leisure space. | |||
On 23 February 2017, O2 announced that they had agreed to a deal with AEG to maintain the naming rights of The O2 for a further 10 years until 2027.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.o2.co.uk/2017/02/23/10-years-o2/|title=10 more years of The O2|publisher=o2.co.uk|access-date=7 August 2017|date=23 February 2017}}</ref> | |||
From the closure of the original "]" exhibition occupying the site, several possible ways of reusing the Millennium Dome's shell were proposed and then rejected. The official renaming of the Dome in 2005 gave publicity to its transition into an entertainment district. The Dome's shell itself remained in site, but its interior and the area around North Greenwich Station, the ] pier and the main entrance area were completely redeveloped. | |||
==The tent== | |||
The area is served by ] tube station, which was opened just before the millennium exhibition, on the ], and by ] routes. ] operate a river boat service for ]; the present tenants, AEG, purchased Thames Clippers in order to provide river links between ] and The O2. As well as a commuter service, Thames Clippers also operates the ] service. | |||
The dome-shaped structure, which now houses The O2's Entertainment Avenue and ], was originally constructed as the ] and housed the Millennium Experience, a major exhibition to celebrate the start of the third millennium. The exhibition opened to the public on 1 January 2000 and ran until 31 December 2000;<ref>{{cite web|url=https://researchbriefings.files.parliament.uk/documents/RP98-32/RP98-32.pdf |title=The Millennium Dome |publisher=House of Commons Library |date=12 March 1998 |access-date=18 February 2022 |first1=Philippa |last1=Carling |first2=Antony |last2=Seely}}</ref> however, the project and exhibition was the subject of considerable political controversy<ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk_politics/241619.stm |title=UK Politics Mandelson: Dome alone |publisher=]|access-date=18 February 2022 |date=23 December 1998}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2006/jul/07/politics.labour |title=A hollow man and an empty tent |work=]|access-date=18 February 2022 |date=7 July 2006}}</ref><ref name=BBCNewswhiteelephant>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/london/4903922.stm |title=White elephant 'not forgotten' |work=]|date=12 April 2006 |access-date=18 February 2022 |first=Liam |last=Allen}}</ref> and it did not attract the number of visitors anticipated,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/1098465.stm |title=Dome visitor total way off target |publisher=BBC |access-date=18 February 2022 |date=3 January 2001}}</ref> leading to recurring financial problems.<ref>{{cite press release |title=The Millennium Dome |publisher=]|date=9 November 2000 |url=https://www.nao.org.uk/press-release/the-millennium-dome-2/ |access-date=18 February 2022}}</ref> | |||
On 18 February 2022, due to ], the tent of The O2 was damaged, with the fibre-glass canopy covering the roof being partially torn off by high winds of up to {{convert|100|mph|kph|abbr=on}} in London.<ref name=StormEuniceITV>{{cite web |url=https://www.itv.com/news/london/2022-02-18/storm-eunice-tears-huge-hole-in-roof-of-londons-o2-arena-in-greenwich |title=Storm Eunice tears huge hole in roof of London's O2 Arena in Greenwich |date=18 February 2022 |publisher=]|access-date=18 February 2022|archive-date=18 February 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220218130658/https://www.itv.com/news/london/2022-02-18/storm-eunice-tears-huge-hole-in-roof-of-londons-o2-arena-in-greenwich}}</ref> | |||
==The Tent== | |||
The dome-shaped building, which now houses The O2's Entertainment Avenue and arena, was originally constructed as the Millennium Dome and housed the Millennium Experience, a major exhibition to celebrate the start of the third millennium. The exhibition opened to the public on 1 January 2000 and ran until 31 December 2000; however, the project and exhibition was the subject of considerable political controversy and it did not attract the number of visitors anticipated, leading to recurring financial problems. In popular usage, the dome canopy is often still called The Dome, reflecting the substantial, and often adverse, publicity given to its building in the late 20th century. | |||
==Background to development== | ==Background to development== | ||
]]] | |||
In December 2001, the government announced that Meridian Delta had been chosen to develop the Dome as a sports and entertainment centre. Meridian Delta, a subsidiary of ] and ], signed a 999-year lease for the Dome with the government and ], a UK governmental body for national regeneration which was assigned the regeneration of the Greenwich Peninsula.<ref name="independent2012">{{cite web|url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/business/analysis-and-features/millennium-dome-white-elephant-learnt-fly-8157301.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220618/https://www.independent.co.uk/news/business/analysis-and-features/millennium-dome-white-elephant-learnt-fly-8157301.html |archive-date=18 June 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|title=Millennium Dome: The white elephant that learnt to fly|work=]|first=Lucy|last=Tobin|date=20 September 2012}}</ref> | |||
The Dome was sub-leased to ] (AEG) for 58 years. AEG would develop and operate The O2 during the length of the lease, while the government was entitled to a 15% share of profits for 25 years.<ref name="standard2018">{{cite web|url=https://www.standard.co.uk/business/americans-aeg-and-the-chancellor-philip-hammond-rake-it-in-from-o2-arena-a3785986.html|title=American's AEG and the Chancellor Philip Hammond rake it in from O2 arena|first=Christian|last=Sylt|work=]|date=9 March 2018}}</ref> The O2 was developed inside the Dome structure by AEG to a design by ] and ] at a cost of £350 million.<ref name="independent2012" /> | |||
] | |||
The O2 was developed inside the dome structure by ] to a design by ] and ] in a £600 million development.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mycityoflondon.co.uk/cityoflondon/celebs-justin-timberlake.htm |title=Justin Timberlake |publisher=Mycityoflondon.co.uk |accessdate=27 October 2008 |archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20071017170538/http://mycityoflondon.co.uk/cityoflondon/celebs-justin-timberlake.htm |archivedate = 17 October 2007}}</ref> | |||
In 2008, the functions of English Partnerships were transferred to the ], and in 2009, Quintain and Lend Lease sold their interest in Meridian Delta to ] for £24 million.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/business/2009/oct/09/trinity-college-cambridge-o2-dome|title=Trinity College Cambridge buys lease of O2 complex at Millennium Dome|work=The Guardian|last=Kollewe|first=Julia|date=9 October 2009|access-date=19 November 2020}}</ref> | |||
In December 2001, it was announced that Meridian Delta, Ltd. had been chosen by the government to develop the Dome structure, originally the ], as a sports and entertainment centre, and to develop housing, shops and offices on 150 acres (0.6 km²) of surrounding land. It is also hoped to relocate some of London's tertiary education establishments to the site. Meridian Delta is backed by the American billionaire ], who has interests in oil, railways, and telecommunications, as well as a string of sports-related investments. | |||
As part of the investment programme, naming rights were sold to ]; 'The O2' became the project's official name on 25 May 2005.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://theregister.co.uk/2005/05/25/O2_dome/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071024132307/http://www.theregister.co.uk/2005/05/25/o2_dome/ |archive-date=24 October 2007 |website=]|title=O2 sponsors white elephant}}</ref> In 2017, O2's name sponsorship was extended for a further ten years.<ref name="standard2018" /> The £6 million per year deal between O2 and AEG included priority tickets and reserved VIP accommodation for O2 mobile customers.<ref>{{cite press release|url=http://www.o2.com/media/press_releases/press_release_629.asp?archive=yes|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071227202105/http://www.o2.com/media/press_releases/press_release_629.asp?archive=yes|url-status=dead|title=O2 and Anschutz Entertainment Group unveil 'The O2' and sign exclusive mobile content and music deal|archive-date=27 December 2007|date=25 May 2005|publisher=O2}}</ref> The service was also made available to premium ticket holders. O2 started talks with AEG in 2005 to have its logo and branding placed on the roof of the dome,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/article432609.ece|title=Dome could be an O2 'bubble'|work=]}}{{dead link|date=September 2024|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref> but this did not take place. | |||
Meridian Delta, a subsidiary of ] and ], had signed a 999-year lease for the Dome and its surrounding land with the government and ], a UK governmental body for national regeneration which was assigned the regeneration of the Greenwich Peninsula. The Dome site was then sub-leased to Anshutz Entertainment Group (AEG), who strongly support Meridian Delta, for a minimum of 58 years. English Partnerships leased the arena directly to AEG Europe for 58 years. AEG would develop and operate The O2 during the length of the lease agreements. The lease agreements were made in the agreement that the government would get a certain percentage of profits through English Partnerships. ] and ] both own land around The O2 on the Greenwich Peninsula. They will release land in stages, to developers, and develop the area in a joint venture with the aid of Meridian Delta.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nao.org.uk/publications/nao_reports/04-05/0405178.pdf|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20070610193804/http://www.nao.org.uk/publications/nao_reports/04-05/0405178.pdf|archivedate=10 June 2007 |title=National Audit Office Report (HC 178, 2004–05): English Partnerships – Regeneration of the Millennium Dome and Associated Land (Full Report) |format=PDF|date=10 Jan 2005 |accessdate=23 November 2008}}</ref> Some of the land is already being developed for offices and shops. The ] football school has already been developed on the Greenwich Peninsula. Some of the land around the dome is being reserved for possible extended developments for The O2, including a hotel, although the building of much of the extended development depends on how much investment can be made by AEG ''(See below section about ] for details)''. ], a specialist art & design institution currently located in Chislehurst, is having a new campus built immediately adjacent to The O2. This is due for occupation in September 2010. The development of the whole Greenwich Peninsula area is likely to cost 4 billion pounds.<ref name="bbc1">{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/london/4903922.stm |title=White elephant 'not forgotten' |publisher=BBC NEWS |author=Liam Allen |date=12 April 2006 |accessdate=27 October 2008}}</ref> | |||
AEG have stated that they wish to abolish the 'Dome' name due to its reputation as a failed project, being tagged as 'The ].'<ref name="BBCNewswhiteelephant" /> Since its opening, there have been signs of the press and public calling it The O2.<ref>{{cite web |first=Valentine |last=Low |url=http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/news/article-23401804-bon-jovi-blasts-off-at-the-o2.do |title=Bon Jovi blasts off at the O2 – News – Evening Standard |publisher=Thisislondon.co.uk |date=25 June 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110818165454/http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/news/article-23401804-bon-jovi-blasts-off-at-the-o2.do |archive-date=18 August 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/entertainment/6548973.stm |title=Bon Jovi first to play O2 arena |publisher=BBC News |date=12 April 2007 |access-date=27 October 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/news/london_070625.html |title=NBA.com – Tickets Sold Out for Celtics vs. Timberwolves at the O2 Arena in London |work=]|access-date=27 October 2008}}</ref><ref name="O2Independent" /> It is currently the largest entertainment district in London.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.earthtimes.org/articles/show/2948.html |title=Millennium Dome to become Europe's largest entertainment zone : Entertainment |publisher=Earthtimes.org |access-date=27 October 2008}}</ref> To mark its opening, AEG spent £6.5 million on a mass advertising campaign, led by ], throughout Europe to promote The O2.<ref>{{cite press release|url=http://www.chime.plc.uk/news_room/news_room_index.asp?rel=450&TYPES=1 |title=O2 and AEG Europe introduce The O2, London's most exciting new destination unveiled in a £6.5m advertising campaign by VCCP|publisher=Chime Communications |date=4 July 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070926234832/http://www.chime.plc.uk/news_room/news_room_index.asp?rel=450&TYPES=1 |archive-date=26 September 2007 }}</ref> | |||
As part of the investment programme, naming rights were sold to ]; and 'The O2' became the official name of the project on 25 May 2005.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://web.archive.org/web/20071017165440/http://theregister.co.uk/2005/05/25/O2_dome/ |title=Internet Archive Wayback Machine |publisher=Web.archive.org |date= }}</ref> The £6 million a year deal between O2 plc and AEG also included priority tickets and reserved VIP accommodation for O2 mobile customers.<ref>{{dead link|date=August 2012}}</ref> The service was also made available to premium ticket holders. | |||
O2 plc started talks with AEG in 2005 to have its logo and branding placed on the roof of the dome, but this has not yet been confirmed.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/article432609.ece |title=Dome could be an O2 ‘bubble’ |work=The Times |date= }}</ref> ] have constantly stated that they wish to abolish its name as 'The Dome' due to its bad reputation as a failed project, being tagged as 'The White Elephant.'<ref name="bbc1"/> Since its opening, there have been signs of the press and public calling it The O2.<ref>{{cite web|author=Valentine Low |url=http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/news/article-23401804-bon-jovi-blasts-off-at-the-o2.do |title=Bon Jovi blasts off at the O2 - News - Evening Standard |publisher=Thisislondon.co.uk |date=25 June 2007 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/entertainment/6548973.stm |title=BBC NEWS , Entertainment , Bon Jovi first to play O2 arena |publisher=News.bbc.co.uk |date=Last Updated: |accessdate=27 October 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/news/london_070625.html |title=NBA.com – Tickets Sold Out for Celtics vs. Timberwolves at the O2 Arena in London |publisher=Nba.com |accessdate=27 October 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.independent.co.uk/media/article2667051.ece |title=Branding the O2: Welcome to the new Dome of entertainment |work=The Independent |location=UK |author=More for less |date= 18 June 2007|accessdate=27 October 2008 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://web.archive.org/web/20071220163519/http://www.itv.com/news/index_e106f63880f2fda611bb4308ab922f1f.html |title=Internet Archive Wayback Machine |publisher=Web.archive.org |date=20 December 2007 }}</ref> It is currently the largest entertainment district in London.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.earthtimes.org/articles/show/2948.html |title=Millennium Dome to become Europe’s largest entertainment zone : Entertainment |publisher=Earthtimes.org |accessdate=27 October 2008}}</ref> To mark its opening, AEG spent £6.5 million on a mass advertising campaign, led by ], throughout Europe to promote The O2;<ref>{{cite web|url=http://web.archive.org/web/20070926234832/http://www.chime.plc.uk/news_room/news_room_index.asp?rel=450&TYPES=1 |title=Press Releases | Chime Communications |publisher=Web.archive.org |date=26 September 2007 }}</ref> they are also partnered with and sponsored by ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ] and ].<ref name=autogenerated2>{{cite web|url=http://web.archive.org/web/20071111192543/http://www.theo2.co.uk/web/guest/aboutus |title=The O2 - About AEG |publisher=Web.archive.org |date=11 November 2007 }}</ref> | |||
===Construction=== | ===Construction=== | ||
The development took place in the form of new buildings being built inside the dome structure. The dome structure was not changed as part of the construction with the exception of blue lights being added to the support poles and plasma displays being added to some of the large sculptures around the dome. Construction started with the arena roof, which was built on the ground and then raised, as cranes could not be used in the dome structure. The construction then moved on to the arena building itself and the entertainment avenue around the arena building. A wide pathway between North Greenwich station and The O2 was also built, as well as the Peninsula Square piazza in front of the dome for special events. A glass roof was built over part of the pathway so that people can walk from the station to The O2 without getting wet in rain. A covered path was also built between the QE2 Pier and The O2's main entrance. ] provided structural engineering for the project. The main civil engineering and construction contract for the development was awarded to ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sir-robert-mcalpine.com/projects/index.html |title=Sir Robert McAlpine Project Archive |date=12 October 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071012024013/http://www.sir-robert-mcalpine.com/projects/index.html |archive-date=12 October 2007 }}</ref> Watson Steel Structures provided engineering for the 4,500 tonne arena roof.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sir-robert-mcalpine.com/ |title=Sir Robert McAlpine |publisher=]}}</ref> M-E Engineers were the building services engineers for the project. T. Clarke were the electrical contractors.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.tclarke.co.uk/casestudy/41/the_O2_arena.html |title=Market Sectors – T. Clarke Corporate Website |publisher=Tclarke.co.uk |access-date=27 October 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080609003805/http://www.tclarke.co.uk/casestudy/41/the_O2_arena.html |archive-date=9 June 2008}}</ref> | |||
] | |||
The development took place in the form of new buildings being built inside the dome structure. The dome structure was not changed as part of the construction with the exception of blue lights being added to the support poles and plasma displays being added to some of the large sculptures around the dome.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.flickr.com/photos/imitated/988648472/in/set-72157601173385654/ |title=The O2 Arena sur Flickr : partage de photos ! |publisher=Flickr.com |accessdate=27 October 2008}}</ref> Construction started with the arena roof, which was built on the ground and then raised, as cranes could not be used in the dome structure. The construction then moved on to the arena building itself and the entertainment avenue around the arena building. A wide pathway between North Greenwich station and The O2 was also built, as well as the Peninsula Square piazza in front of the dome for special events. A glass roof was built over part of the pathway so that people can walk from the station to The O2 without getting wet in rain. A covered path was also built between the QE2 Pier and The O2's main entrance. ] provided structural engineering for the project. The main civil engineering and construction contract for the development was awarded to ].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://web.archive.org/web/20071012024013/http://www.sir-robert-mcalpine.com/projects/index.html |title=Sir Robert McAlpine Project Archive |publisher=Web.archive.org |date=12 October 2007 }}</ref> Watson Steel Structures provided engineering for the 4500 tonne arena roof.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sir-robert-mcalpine.com/ |title=Sir Robert McAlpine |publisher=Sir Robert McAlpine |date= }}</ref> M-E Engineers were the building services engineers for the project. T. Clarke were the electrical contractors.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.tclarke.co.uk/casestudy/41/the_O2_arena.html |title=Market Sectors – T. Clarke Corporate Website |publisher=Tclarke.co.uk |accessdate=27 October 2008}}</ref> OR Consulting engineers set up a few interactive exhibitions within The O2.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.orconsult.co.uk/news/O2-dome-exhibition-projects-00010.html |title=New Temporary Exhibition Projects for OR Consulting Complete – OR Consulting News |publisher=Orconsult.co.uk |accessdate=27 October 2008}}</ref><ref name=autogenerated6>{{cite web|url=http://www.building.co.uk/story.asp?sectioncode=29&storycode=3089807 |title=The Dome reborn – Building |publisher=Building.co.uk |accessdate=27 October 2008}}</ref> Keller Ground engineering prepared the ground for construction. Special ground preparation was necessary due to the contaminated soils from the industrial works which existed at the site before the dome. Catalytic converters were also installed within the dome to prevent toxic gases due to the dome structure being left in place. The plant cylinders, containing services equipment, and some piles used for the original dome, were reused.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://keller-ge.co.uk/engineering/case-studies/case-study-details/O2DomeArenaandLeisureComplex.html?ContentID=49 |title=Keller GE – Keller Ground Engineering, Case Histories, soil nailing, slope stabilisation |publisher=Keller-ge.co.uk |accessdate=27 October 2008 |archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20080608223219/http://keller-ge.co.uk/engineering/case-studies/case-study-details/O2DomeArenaandLeisureComplex.html?ContentID=49 |archivedate = 8 June 2008}}</ref> Financial consulting was provided by WT Partnership and EC Harris.<ref name=autogenerated6 /> The Waterfront partnership provided legal support for the development and continues to do so for The O2.<ref name=autogenerated4>{{cite web|url=http://www.greenwich.gov.uk/NR/rdonlyres/9BFC044C-3DF8-4CA0-AE9F-E91F3DD3480E/0/20071402Agenda.pdf |title=General Purposes Committee<!-- Bot generated title --> |format=PDF |accessdate=27 October 2008}}</ref> Kerzner International helped with the development of the entertainment venues.<ref name=autogenerated1>{{cite web|url=http://www.gold.ac.uk/world/millen/gppf100106.html |title=Greenwich Peninsula Partnership Forum |publisher=Gold.ac.uk |accessdate=27 October 2008}}</ref> | |||
OR Consulting engineers set up a few interactive exhibitions within The O2.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.orconsult.co.uk/news/O2-dome-exhibition-projects-00010.html |title=New Temporary Exhibition Projects for OR Consulting Complete – OR Consulting News |publisher=Orconsult.co.uk |access-date=27 October 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080820045002/http://www.orconsult.co.uk/news/o2-dome-exhibition-projects-00010.html |archive-date=20 August 2008}}</ref><ref name=autogenerated6>{{cite web|url=http://www.building.co.uk/story.asp?sectioncode=29&storycode=3089807 |title=The Dome reborn – Building |publisher=Building.co.uk |access-date=27 October 2008}}</ref> Keller Ground engineering prepared the ground for construction. Special ground preparation was necessary due to the contaminated soils from the industrial works which existed at the site before the dome. Catalytic converters were also installed within the dome to prevent toxic gases due to the dome structure being left in place. The plant cylinders, containing services equipment, and some piles used for the original dome, were reused.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://keller-ge.co.uk/engineering/case-studies/case-study-details/O2DomeArenaandLeisureComplex.html?ContentID=49 |title=Keller GE – Keller Ground Engineering, Case Histories, soil nailing, slope stabilisation |publisher=Keller-ge.co.uk |access-date=27 October 2008 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080608223219/http://keller-ge.co.uk/engineering/case-studies/case-study-details/O2DomeArenaandLeisureComplex.html?ContentID=49 |archive-date = 8 June 2008}}</ref> Financial consulting was provided by WT Partnership and EC Harris.<ref name=autogenerated6 /> The Waterfront partnership provided legal support for the development and continues to do so for The O2.<ref name=autogenerated4>{{cite web|url=http://www.greenwich.gov.uk/NR/rdonlyres/9BFC044C-3DF8-4CA0-AE9F-E91F3DD3480E/0/20071402Agenda.pdf |title=General Purposes Committee<!-- Bot generated title -->|access-date=27 October 2008}}</ref> Kerzner International helped with the development of the entertainment venues.<ref name=autogenerated1>{{cite web |url=http://www.gold.ac.uk/world/millen/gppf100106.html |title=Greenwich Peninsula Partnership Forum |publisher=Gold.ac.uk |access-date=27 October 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080608170933/http://www.gold.ac.uk/world/millen/gppf100106.html |archive-date=8 June 2008}}</ref> | |||
===Super casino proposals=== | ===Super casino proposals=== | ||
Anschutz planned to build a |
Anschutz planned to build a ] as one of the attractions, which would lead to further development of the area. The casino was to be developed and operated by Kerzner International.<ref name=autogenerated1 /> The association of the British ], ], with ], head of the entertainment group, gave rise to political controversy, with allegations that Prescott may have used undue influence to support Anschutz's casino licence bid. Prescott had met Anschutz on several occasions and stayed in his ranch for a few days.<ref>{{cite news|title=Prescott 'broke ministers' rules'|publisher=BBC News |date=21 July 2006|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk_politics/5196152.stm|access-date=31 January 2007}}</ref> In August 2006, it was reported that construction of the shell of The O2's casino site had already started.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk_politics/5301072.stm|title=Dome super-casino 'not done deal'|date=31 August 2006|access-date=4 August 2018}}</ref> In January 2007 the single trial licence for a British super casino was granted to ]. Consequently, AEG announced that the casino would not be built in the near future, and that there would not be enough investment for a high-rise hotel, designed by Richard Rogers, as well as a theatre, a cable car from Canary Wharf and an extended development that was planned adjacent to the dome.<ref name=autogenerated1 /> | ||
===Outlet Shopping=== | |||
In late 2018, AEG, in association with property firm Crosstree Real Estate Partners, opened a premium retail outlet at the O2, called the ''Icon Outlet''. The centre, which 'completes the loop' at the venue, is set over 210,000 sq.feet and takes up a section of the O2 that was previously intended to house a supercasino.<ref>{{cite web|last=Gray |first= Peter|url=https://www.citycountdown.com/index.php/2018/11/10/the-icon-outlet-at-the-o2/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200809141408/https://www.citycountdown.com/index.php/2018/11/10/the-icon-outlet-at-the-o2/|url-status=usurped|archive-date=9 August 2020|title=The Icon Outlet at the O2|website=city:countdown|access-date=5 May 2020}}</ref> | |||
The new shopping centre opened its doors in October 2018 with thirty stores, however, that number has since increased to over 60. Brands at the Icon Outlet include ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ] and ]. The venue also includes a cafe (Cloud Nine), a store that organises sample sales (Showcase.co.)<ref>{{cite news |last1=Gambarotto |first1=Tilly |title=The 45 new shops which have opened in new designer outlet Icon at the O2 |url=https://www.mylondon.news/news/east-london-news/45-new-shops-opened-new-15719237 |access-date=5 May 2020 |work=MyLondon.news |date=23 January 2019}}</ref> | |||
In August 2023 the ''Icon'' name was dropped, with the shopping centre now known as ''Outlet Shopping at The O2''.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://news.completelyretail.co.uk/o2s-icon-outlet-undergoes-rebrand/|title= O2’s Icon Outlet undergoes rebrand|work=Complete Retail News|access-date=18 Nov 2024}}</ref> | |||
===Future developments=== | |||
Nearly one-third of the ground floor of the dome awaits development in Phase II. A mezzanine level is also located on the western side of the dome in which AEG are still determined to locate a super casino. Alternatively, an attraction is required that would attract enough tourists who would wish to stay overnight and bring in sufficient investment to allow Phase II to proceed as well as the building of the planned hotel.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/money/main.jhtml?xml=/money/2007/06/17/ccdome117.xml | work=The Daily Telegraph | location=London | title=Will the Dome clouds lift at last? | date=17 June 2007 | accessdate=25 May 2010}}</ref> It has been suggested that The O2 could be a cruise terminal as an alternative to a super casino, if the super casino were not possible.<ref>{{Dead link|date=October 2008}}</ref> In late 2007, Marine engineering consultancy, Beckett Rankine, were appointed to investigate the possibility of the cruise terminal being built.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.beckettrankine.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=341&Itemid=100 |title=Beckett Rankine – O2 Cruise Terminal |publisher=Beckettrankine.com |accessdate=27 October 2008}}</ref> The remaining land around The O2 Entertainment District will be filled with shops and offices. Short term car parks are currently being built. | |||
===Potential developments=== | |||
A walkway across the top of the dome's structure has been opened, allowing visitors to traverse the roof at a height of 60m.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.theo2.co.uk/general/the-o2-roofwalk-given-the-green-light.html | title=The O2 Roofwalk given the green light | publisher=AEG | date=29 Jul 2011 | accessdate=16 Nov 2011 }}</ref> | |||
In late 2007 marine engineering consultancy Beckett Rankine was appointed to investigate the possibility of a cruise ship terminal being built.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://beckettrankine.com/o2-cruise-terminal/ |title=Beckett Rankine – O2 Cruise Terminal |date=20 August 2007 |publisher=Beckett Rankine |access-date=27 October 2008}}</ref> | |||
In |
In 2012 it was reported that the O2 would be sold by its owners AEG, as part of the disposal of the entire company's assets, rumoured to be valued around $7 billion.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.londonlovesbusiness.com/business-news/business/the-o2-goes-up-for-sale/3462.article |title=The O2 goes up for sale |date=20 September 2012 |access-date=5 February 2017 |publisher=London Loves Business |last=Hobson |first=Sophie}}</ref> | ||
==Opening== | ==Opening== | ||
] in the background]] | |||
The venue, rebranded '''The O2''', was reopened to the public on 24 June 2007 with a concert by ] in the arena. The O2 celebrated its first year with a book, including a double page picture of Elton John from his September 2007 ''Red Piano'' show.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.inthenews.co.uk/news/entertainment/music/bon-jovi-open-new-O2-venue-$1103128.htm |title=Bon Jovi open new O2 venue |publisher=Inthenews.co.uk |date= }}</ref> | |||
The venue, rebranded '''The O2''', was reopened to the public on 24 June 2007 with a concert by ] in the arena. The O2 celebrated its first year with a book, including a double page picture of Elton John from his September 2007 ''Red Piano'' show.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.inthenews.co.uk/news/entertainment/music/bon-jovi-open-new-O2-venue-$1103128.htm |title=Bon Jovi open new O2 venue |publisher=Inthenews.co.uk |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101124162411/http://www.inthenews.co.uk/news/entertainment/music/bon-jovi-open-new-o2-venue-%241103128.htm |archive-date=24 November 2010}}</ref> | |||
Prior to this reopening, other events took place, including a soft opening for residents of the area to explore the entertainment district and an opening for staff called "The O2 Premiere" which featured Peter Kay, Tom Jones, Kaiser Chiefs and Basement Jaxx. An event called "Out of the Blue" featuring circus acts also took place on the day of the public opening, as part of the ] Festival. | |||
Prior to this reopening, other events took place, including a soft opening for residents of the area to explore the entertainment district and an opening for staff called "The O2 Premiere" which featured ], ], ] and ]. An event called "Out of the Blue" featuring circus acts also took place on the day of the public opening, as part of the Greenwich Festival. | |||
==Facilities== | ==Facilities== | ||
]]Various buildings are housed within the dome structure including an arena, known as ] and an Entertainment Avenue consisting of various restaurants and bars. |
]] | ||
Various buildings are housed within the dome structure including an arena, known as ], smaller venue Indigo at The O2, Hollywood Bowl, Cineworld, Sky Studios and an Entertainment Avenue consisting of various restaurants and bars.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theo2.co.uk/|title=The O2|website=theo2.co.uk}}</ref> A new shopping outlet opened in 2018. Backstage there is also a VIP club lounge, operations rooms, a media centre with high definition facilities and a number of dressing rooms, as well as a VIP entrance/exit for performers. | |||
All the venues in the complex use the latest lighting, sound and security technology, including ] smart card tagging of staff and VIP guests, and digitally managed sound.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.computing.co.uk/computing/news/2192975/dome-puts-top |title=The Dome puts IT at the top |work=Computing |date= 28 June 2007 }}</ref> There are four computer server rooms to provide this technology.<ref>{{cite |
All the venues in the complex use the latest lighting, sound and security technology, including ] smart card tagging of staff and VIP guests, and digitally managed sound.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.computing.co.uk/computing/news/2192975/dome-puts-top |title=The Dome puts IT at the top |work=Computing |date= 28 June 2007 }}</ref> There are four computer server rooms to provide this technology.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/6225452.stm |title=Dome's hi-tech refit for The O2 |publisher=BBC News |date=21 June 2007 }}</ref> | ||
The complex is also covered by ] and security personnel. |
The complex is also covered by ] and security personnel. Arena visitors and their bags are screened with ] machines and ]s at the main entrance.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.theo2.co.uk/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=189&Itemid=442 |title=The O2 – Venue Access |publisher=Theo2.co.uk |access-date=27 October 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.theo2.co.uk/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=76&Itemid=196 |title=The O2 – Health & Safety |publisher=Theo2.co.uk |access-date=27 October 2008}}</ref> | ||
===The O2 Arena=== | ===The O2 Arena=== | ||
{{Main|The O2 Arena |
{{Main|The O2 Arena}} | ||
] |
] | ||
] | |||
] (referred to as the '''North Greenwich Arena''' for the ]-sponsored ] and ]) is a 20,000 capacity venue, primarily used for live music. It is located at the centre of The O2 and is the first American-style, multi-purpose arena in London.<ref name=autogenerated2 /> It is the second largest arena in Europe after the ], but is the busiest in the world. | |||
] (referred to as the '''North Greenwich Arena''' for the ] and ]) is a 20,000 capacity venue, primarily used for live music. It is located at the centre of The O2 and was the first new purpose built music venue in London since the Royal Albert Hall in 1871.<ref name="autogenerated2">{{cite web|url=http://www.theo2.co.uk/web/guest/aboutus|title=The O2 – About AEG|date=11 November 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071111192543/http://www.theo2.co.uk/web/guest/aboutus|archive-date=11 November 2007|url-status=dead}}</ref> It is the second largest arena in the UK after the ], but is the busiest music venue in the world.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.theo2.co.uk/news/detail/the-worlds-busiest-arena-the-o2-celebrates-record-breaking-2023#:~:text=Our%20record%2Dbreaking%20ticket%20sales,legacy%20in%202024%20and%20beyond.%E2%80%9D | title=The world's busiest arena: The O2 celebrates record-breaking 2023 | the O2 }}</ref> | |||
The arena and its facilities are housed in an independent building within the dome structure. The arena has hosted multiple music and sporting events and in 2008 exceeded ticket sales for both ] and the |
The arena and its facilities are housed in an independent building within the dome structure. The arena has hosted multiple kinds of music and sporting events and in 2008 exceeded ticket sales for both ] and the Manchester Arena.<ref>White, Dominic (15 April 2008). '' ]'' Retrieved 7 May 2011</ref> | ||
===indigO2=== | ==={{Anchor|indigO2}} Indigo at The O2=== | ||
Indigo at The O2 is a 2,750-capacity live music club for smaller music events, club events, after shows, corporate and private events.<ref name=autogenerated4 /> It contains four bars: two on the main ground floor area in front of the stage, one in the VIP lounge called the Purple Lounge and one in the stalls, called Bleachers. The Purple Lounge is not in direct view of the stage, but guests have access to "Kings Row", the best{{clarificationneeded|date=May 2023}} seats in the venue. Indigo at The O2 is managed by Ansco Music Club Limited (the business name of the Indigo part of AEG Live). | |||
] | |||
indigO2 is a 2,920 capacity live music club for smaller music events, club events, after shows, corporate and private events.<ref name=autogenerated4 /> It contains four bars: two on the main ground floor area in front of the stage, one in the V.I.P lounge called the Purple Lounge and one in the stalls, called Bleachers. The V.I.P Purple Lounge is not in direct view of the stage, but V.I.P guests have access to "Kings Row"; the best seats in the venue. The circle is on the top floor, above "Kings Row". There are no seats with obstructed views. indigO2 is managed by Ansco Music Club limited (the business name of the indigO2 part of AEG Live). | |||
The venue |
The venue hosted "An Audience with ]" in 2007. Comedians such as ] and ] have performed at Indigo. ] hosted several shows throughout 2008. The venue hosted the 'bootcamp' sessions for the reality TV show, '']'' during the 2008, Series 5 season, and in 2010 was used for the debut of the snooker format, ].<ref>{{cite web|title=Power Snooker|url=http://www.powersnooker.com/events.php |access-date=24 July 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100726072720/http://www.powersnooker.com/events.php |archive-date=26 July 2010 }}</ref> In 2012 it was the venue for a performance by South Korean pop rock band ].<ref>{{cite news|last=Hong|first=Grace Danbi|title=CN Blue Showered with Success at London Concert|url=http://enewsworld.mnet.com/enews/contents.asp?idx=15761|access-date=2 March 2013|newspaper=enewsWorld|date=24 September 2012|agency=CJ E&M}}</ref> The Indigo also hosted the ].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.sportinglife.com/darts/news/o2-replaces-lakeside-as-bdo-venue/169747|work=Sporting Life|title=BDO World Darts Championships to be staged at the O2 after leaving Lakeside|date=2 August 2019|accessdate=3 June 2021}}</ref> | ||
=== |
===The O2 Bubble=== | ||
The O2 Bubble was a two-storey bubble-shaped exhibition space<ref name="StrawberryTours">{{cite web |title=Up at the O2 Ultimate Guide|url=https://strawberrytours.com/london/attractions/up-at-the-o2 |website=Strawberry Tours |access-date=21 December 2018}}</ref> built to museum standards, which opened in November 2007. It was made from ], the same material used for the ], and the bubble itself was reportedly based on the Eden Project.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/in_pictures/4579529.stm |title=In pictures: Dome development |work=BBC News |date=25 May 2005 |access-date=27 October 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081123160005/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/in_pictures/4579529.stm |archive-date=23 November 2008 |url-status=dead}}</ref> Tutankhamen and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs was the first exhibition in the Bubble and after that was Body Worlds. In October 2009 it was Michael Jackson: The Official Exhibition, a collection of Jackson's personal items from his estate and Neverland Ranch, costumes and props from his tours and videos.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.theo2.co.uk/web/guest/whatson/exhibitions |title=The O2 – The O2 bubble |publisher=Theo2.co.uk |access-date=27 October 2008 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20071217111006/http://www.theo2.co.uk/web/guest/whatson/exhibitions|archive-date=17 December 2007 }}</ref> | |||
] | |||
The cinema includes 11 screens over 2 levels including one 770 capacity auditorium (Sky Super Screen) which is the third largest screen, by screen-size, in London, and the sixth largest screen in the UK. | |||
The cinema uses the vista ticketing system, where tickets can be purchased from any stall selling refreshments. For this reason there is no box office dedicated to selling tickets only. The cinema is operated by ] Cinemas Ltd.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://finance.digitallook.com/news/3537494/Cineworld_to_operate_O2_multiplex.html |title=Cineworld to operate O2 multiplex | Digital Look |publisher=Finance.digitallook.com |date=25 June 2010 }}</ref> | |||
In 2009, the third{{Contradict-inline|date=July 2024}} floor of the bubble became an exhibition called the ], a sixty-year retrospective of British popular music.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.o2.com/about/why_sponsor.asp|title=O2 – Why Sponsor?|access-date=2 June 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080609003922/http://www.o2.com/about/why_sponsor.asp|archive-date=9 June 2008}}</ref> The space, no longer named The O2 Bubble, has hosted various exhibitions including Star Wars Identities, My Name is Prince, Elvis on Tour, and DC Exhibition: Dawn of Super Heroes, and ABBA: Super Troupers The Exhibition, which was terminated earlier than planned, in 2020, due to ].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theo2.co.uk/events/detail/super-troupers|title=ABBA: Super Troupers The Exhibition | The O2|first=The|last=O2|website=theo2.co.uk|accessdate=19 July 2024}}</ref> | |||
===The O2 bubble=== | |||
The O2 Bubble is a two-storey bubble-shaped exhibition space built to museum standards, which opened in November 2007. It is made from ], the same material used for the ], and the bubble itself is reportedly based on the Eden Project.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/in_pictures/4579529.stm |title=BBC NEWS , In Pictures , In pictures: Dome development |publisher=News.bbc.co.uk |date=Last Updated: |accessdate=27 October 2008}}</ref> Tutankhamen and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs was the first exhibition in the Bubble and after that was Body Worlds. In October 2009 it was Michael Jackson: The Official Exhibition, a collection of Jackson's personal items from his estate and Neverland Ranch, costumes and props from his tours and videos.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.theo2.co.uk/web/guest/whatson/exhibitions |title=The O2 – The O2 bubble |publisher=Theo2.co.uk |accessdate=27 October 2008 |archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20080122201111/http://www.theo2.co.uk/web/guest/whatson/exhibitions |archivedate = 22 January 2008}}</ref> | |||
===The Avenue=== | |||
In 2009, the third floor of the bubble became a permanent exhibition called the ], a sixty-year retrospective of British popular music.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.o2.com/about/why_sponsor.asp|title=O2 – Why Sponsor?|accessdate=2 June 2008}}</ref> | |||
===Entertainment Avenue=== | |||
] | ] | ||
The Entertainment Avenue is a wide pedestrian avenue within The O2, with artificial palm trees and other decorations, built around the circular arena building which takes up the centre of the dome structure. The entertainment avenue has buildings on either side, which are leased to tenants who run bars and restaurants, and resembles a shopping centre. | The Entertainment Avenue is a wide pedestrian avenue within The O2, with artificial palm trees and other decorations, built around the circular arena building which takes up the centre of the dome structure. The entertainment avenue has buildings on either side, which are leased to tenants who run bars and restaurants, and resembles a shopping centre. | ||
] | |||
The buildings on the Entertainment Avenue include a music club known as indigO2, an exhibition space known as The O2 bubble, a cinema managed by ] and 25 bars and restaurants.<ref name=autogenerated5>{{cite web|url=http://web.archive.org/web/20071107095727/http://www.theo2.co.uk/web/guest/corporateenquiries/eventsandconferencing |title=The O2 - Events & Conferencing |publisher=Web.archive.org |date=7 November 2007 }}</ref> | |||
The buildings on the Entertainment Avenue include a music club known as Indigo at The O2, an exhibition space, a cinema managed by ] and 26 bars and restaurants.<ref name=autogenerated5>{{cite web|url=http://www.theo2.co.uk/web/guest/corporateenquiries/eventsandconferencing |title=The O2 – Events & Conferencing |date=7 November 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071107095727/http://www.theo2.co.uk/web/guest/corporateenquiries/eventsandconferencing |archive-date=7 November 2007 }}</ref> The cinema includes 11 screens over 2 levels including one 770 capacity auditorium (Sky Super Screen) which is the third largest screen, by screen-size, in London, and the sixth largest screen in the UK. It uses the vista ticketing system, where tickets can be purchased from any stall selling refreshments. Cineworld began operating the cinema, taking over from ] in 2010.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://finance.digitallook.com/news/3537494/Cineworld_to_operate_O2_multiplex.html |title=Cineworld to operate O2 multiplex {{pipe}} Digital Look |publisher=Finance.digitallook.com |date=25 June 2010 }}</ref> | |||
Fast food outlets have been banned from the development as the theme is 'aspirational but accessible', trying to avoid it being seen as a shopping centre but more like ].<ref>{{cite news|title=The Dome misses out|work=Daily Telegraph |location=UK |date=31 January 2007|url= http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/main.jhtml?xml=/news/2007/01/30/ngamble430.xml| |
Fast food outlets have been banned from the development as the theme is 'aspirational but accessible', trying to avoid it being seen as a shopping centre but more like ].<ref>{{cite news|title=The Dome misses out|work=The Daily Telegraph |location=UK |date=31 January 2007|url= https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/main.jhtml?xml=/news/2007/01/30/ngamble430.xml|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20071219081934/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/main.jhtml?xml=/news/2007/01/30/ngamble430.xml|url-status= dead|archive-date= 19 December 2007|access-date=22 June 2007 | first=Harry | last=Wallop}}</ref><ref name=O2Independent>{{cite news |url=http://news.independent.co.uk/media/article2667051.ece |title=Branding the O2: Welcome to the new Dome of entertainment|work=The Independent |location=UK|date=18 June 2007 |access-date=27 October 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071216071025/http://news.independent.co.uk/media/article2667051.ece |archive-date=16 December 2007}}</ref> | ||
===Up at The O2=== | ===Up at The O2=== | ||
Announced in 2011,<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.theo2.co.uk/general/the-o2-roofwalk-given-the-green-light.html | title=The O2 Roofwalk given the green light | publisher=AEG | date=29 July 2011 | access-date=16 November 2011 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110911211419/http://www.theo2.co.uk/general/the-o2-roofwalk-given-the-green-light.html | archive-date=11 September 2011}}</ref> Up at The O2 officially opened on 21 June 2012. It involves an expedition across the roof of The O2 along a 190m long tensile fabric walkway. Halfway, a central platform provides 360-degree views of the city, before a descent down to the base of the venue on the other side. From the platform, visitors can see the ], ], Historic Royal Greenwich, ] and ] The climbing packages are separated depending on which time of day it currently is, Daylight, Sunset and Twilight. They also offer drinks and meals on top of the summit.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://tickets.aegeurope.com/upattheo2/climb-and-dine-58.html|title=Up at The O2 climb dine.}}</ref> | |||
Up at The O2 is a new attraction that officially opened on 21 June 2012. It involves an expedition across the roof of The O2 along a 190m long tensile fabric walkway. | |||
Halfway through the experience, there is a break at a central platform that provides 360 degree views of the city, before a descent down to the base of the venue on the other side. | |||
===Mamma Mia! the Party=== | |||
From the platform, visitors will be able to see out onto the likes of the ], ], ], Historic Royal Greenwich and ]. | |||
In the summer of 2019, a new Mamma Mia! themed attraction opened at the O2. ''Mamma Mia! the Party'' was based on a popular Swedish show of the same name, which had enjoyed a successful run at the Tyrol Restaurant in Stockholm.<ref>{{cite web|last=Gray |first=Peter|url=https://www.citycountdown.com/index.php/2019/05/30/mama-mia-the-party/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200809041006/https://www.citycountdown.com/index.php/2019/05/30/mama-mia-the-party/|url-status=usurped|archive-date=9 August 2020|title=Mamma Mia! The Party|website=city:countdown|access-date=5 May 2020}}</ref> | |||
Taking its cue from the successful ] and theatre production ], the show relocated the action to a Greek Taverna on the island of ]. The show, which includes a full three course meal, tells the story of taverna owner Nikos and his wife Kate over one night at their family owned restaurant. The show was adapted for the London stage by television celebrity ].<ref>{{cite news|author=Admin|date=28 September 2018|url=https://www.londontheatre1.com/theatre-news/mamma-mia-the-party-to-open-at-londons-o2-september-2019/|title=Mamma Mia! The Party to Open at London's O2 September 2019|work=Londontheatre1}}</ref> | |||
===Indoor events space=== | ===Indoor events space=== | ||
The O2 also has one multi-purpose indoor events space for live music and night clubbing. Competing with other similar events spaces such as ], the club is called Proud2. | The O2 also has one multi-purpose indoor events space for live music and night clubbing. Competing with other similar events spaces such as ], the club is called Building Six (formerly Matter & Proud2). | ||
], since reopened as Proud2]] | |||
===Outdoor event spaces=== | |||
Special events or minor events which did not require or could not be held in the indoor venues were held in the piazzas – The London Piazza, Peninsula Square outside the main entrance of The O2, and the area around the main entrance. The London Piazza, which had featured an indoor beach, ice rink<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.theo2.co.uk/web/guest/whatson/specialevents|title=Special Events|date=22 January 2008|website=The O2|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071218222331/http://www.theo2.co.uk/web/guest/whatson/specialevents|archive-date=18 December 2007|url-status=dead}}</ref> and dry ski slope, was replaced by the Icon shopping outlet. | |||
===Hollywood Bowl=== | |||
Hollywood Bowl is a boutique bowling alley and arcade games space within The O2. | |||
===iFLY=== | |||
In the spring of 2023, a new iFLY indoor skydiving attraction opened, iFLY is an indoor skydiving attraction within The O2, It also offers people to watch the indoor skydiving take place for free.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://londonist.com/the-first-virtual-reality-gaming-suite-is-now-open-at-the-o2-s-hollywood-bowl|title=iFLY launches into The O2 for London debut|date=27 March 2023|website=theo2}}</ref> | |||
===Outdoor events space=== | |||
Special events or minor events which do not require or cannot be held in the indoor venues are held in the piazzas – The London Piazza, Peninsula Square outside the main entrance of The O2, and the area around the main entrance. The London Piazza has featured an indoor beach, ice rink and dry ski slope.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://web.archive.org/web/20080122204647/http://www.theo2.co.uk/web/guest/whatson/specialevents |title=The O2 – Special Events |publisher=Web.archive.org |date=22 January 2008 }}</ref> Past special events at The O2 have included a training session with ].{{citation}} | |||
==Chronology of the site== | ==Chronology of the site== | ||
*1994: The Millennium Commission is established by prime minister ] and handed over to deputy prime minister ]. | *1994: The ] is established by prime minister ] and handed over to deputy prime minister ]. | ||
*January 1996: A site on the ] is selected. ], ] and ] were also considered. | *January 1996: A site on the ] is selected. ], ] and ], London were also considered. | ||
*May 1999: |
*May 1999: ] opens as part of the ], connecting the site to the rest of London by the ]. | ||
*22 June 1999: The structure of the |
*22 June 1999: The structure of the Dome is completed. | ||
*1 January 2000: The |
*1 January 2000: The site opens to the public as the ], containing an exhibition to celebrate the third millennium. | ||
*31 December 2000: The |
*31 December 2000: The Millennium Experience (and the Dome) closes to the public at the end of 2000. | ||
*18 December 2001: Announcement of sale of the site to Meridian Delta, who plan to turn it into a 20,000-seat sports and entertainment venue. Houses and offices will be built on the surrounding land, subject to the consent of the ]. | |||
*27 February 2001 – 2 March 2001: One Amazing Auction Sale: Four-day public auction with 17,000 lots of Dome/NMEC items, managed by auctioneer Henry Butcher | |||
*18 December 2001: Announcement of sale of the site to Meridian Delta Ltd, who plan to turn it into a 20,000-seat sports and entertainment venue. Houses and offices will be built on the surrounding land, subject to the consent of the ]. | |||
*6 December 2003: ''Winter Wonderland 2003'' opens. | |||
*31 May 2005: ] sell the naming rights to the former Millennium Dome to ], a British mobile phone company. | *31 May 2005: ] sell the naming rights to the former Millennium Dome to ], a British mobile phone company. | ||
*23 June 2007: The |
*23 June 2007: The 'O2 premiere' private event opens to staff. ], ], ] and ] perform. | ||
*24 June 2007: The O2 opens to the public. ] is the first band to |
*24 June 2007: The O2 opens to the public. ] is the first band to play the new ]. | ||
*2 September 2007: ]'s '']'' premieres at The O2; it is the first movie to premiere at the venue.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/entertainment/6975260.stm |work=BBC News | title=Fans attend musical film premiere | date=2 September 2007 | |
*2 September 2007: ]'s '']'' premieres at The O2; it is the first movie to premiere at the venue.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/entertainment/6975260.stm |work=BBC News | title=Fans attend musical film premiere | date=2 September 2007 | access-date=25 May 2010}}</ref> | ||
*6 April 2008: ] passes The O2 |
*6 April 2008: The ] passes The O2. | ||
*13 July 2009 – 6 March 2010: On 13 July 2009, ] was scheduled to hold a 50-show ] at the arena, titled ].<ref name="Rolling Stone 50 dates, 1 million tickets">{{cite magazine |first=Daniel|last=Kreps |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/michael-jacksons-this-is-it-tour-balloons-to-50-show-run-stretching-into-2010-80233/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090313050408/http://www.rollingstone.com//rockdaily//index.php//2009//03//12//michael-jacksons-this-is-it-tour-balloons-to-50-show-run-stretching-into-2010// |archive-date=13 March 2009 |title=Michael Jackson's "This Is It!" Tour Balloons to 50-Show Run Stretching Into 2010 |magazine=Rolling Stone |date=12 March 2009 |access-date=7 December 2021 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/7941221.stm|title=Michael Jackson tickets sell out |work=BBC News |date=13 March 2009 |access-date=18 August 2019 }}</ref> However, the concerts were cancelled following ] on 25 June 2009. Less than 3 weeks before the first "This Is It" show was due to begin in London. | |||
*7 June 2010: Bon Jovi become the first band to play on the roof of The O2 to commemorate the beginning of their 12-night residency in the arena.<ref name="Bon Jovi Roof">{{cite news|last=Blake|first=Heidi|title=Bon Jovi play on O2 Arena roof|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/music/music-news/7809597/Bon-Jovi-play-on-O2-Arena-roof.html|accessdate=11 January 2011|newspaper=]|date=7 June 2010|archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/5ve9v23L4|archivedate=11 January 2011}}</ref> | |||
*7 June 2010: Bon Jovi become the first band to play on the roof of The O2 to commemorate the beginning of their 12-night residency in the arena.<ref name="Bon Jovi Roof">{{cite news|last=Blake |first=Heidi |title=Bon Jovi play on O2 Arena roof |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/music/music-news/7809597/Bon-Jovi-play-on-O2-Arena-roof.html |access-date=11 January 2011 |newspaper=] |date=7 June 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100610191015/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/music/music-news/7809597/Bon-Jovi-play-on-O2-Arena-roof.html |archive-date=10 June 2010 |url-status=dead}}</ref> | |||
*21 June 2012: Up at The O2 officially opened. | |||
*20 October 2018: The Icon Outlet shopping centre opens at The O2. | |||
*18 February 2022: The O2’s fabric roof sustained severe damage from exposure to wind speeds of at least {{convert|100|mph|kph|abbr=on}} during ], which tore open several sections of the roof.<ref name="StormEuniceITV" /><ref>{{cite news|first=Sophie |last=Barnett|date=18 February 2022|url=https://www.lbc.co.uk/news/london/o2-arena-roof-ripped-storm-eunice-pictures-inside/|title=First pictures inside O2 arena show scale of damage after Storm Eunice rips off roof|work=LBC}}</ref> | |||
==Transport links== | ==Transport links== | ||
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|+ '''Public transport access''' | |+ '''Public transport access''' | ||
|'''London Buses''' | |'''London Buses''' | ||
|North Greenwich station ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ] | |]: ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ], ] | ||
|- | |- | ||
| '''London Underground''' | | '''London Underground''' | ||
| ] ] | | ] ] | ||
|- | |||
| '''London Cable Car''' | |||
| ] ] | |||
|- | |||
| '''River Bus''' | |||
| ] RB1 / RB2 | |||
|} | |} | ||
{{ |
{{Clear}} | ||
==See also== | ==See also== | ||
*] | |||
*] | |||
*] | |||
*] | *] | ||
*] | *] | ||
*] | |||
*] | |||
==Notes and references== | ==Notes and references== | ||
{{ |
{{Reflist}} | ||
==External links== | ==External links== | ||
{{ |
{{Commons|The O2}} | ||
* |
*{{Official website|www.theo2.co.uk|The O2}} – official site | ||
* Official site of The O2, including venue information and scheduled events | |||
* | * | ||
* | |||
* – Trivia about The O2 | |||
*{{Structurae|id=20000362|title=The Millennium Dome}} | |||
* | |||
* On-going site that documents the run up to the MEX and, now, to The O2 | |||
* – taken with a cameraphone at the first major event at The O2 held on 23 June 2007. | |||
* More photos of The O2 from Flickr, taken at The O2 Premiere event. | |||
*{{Structurae|id=s0000362|title=The Millennium Dome}} | |||
* One individual's collection of Millennium Dome objects | |||
* Personal collection of images showing the construction of the Dome | |||
* On-going site that documents the run up to the MEX and, now, to The O2 | |||
*Details on , Peninsula Square | |||
* Studio responsible for the design of permanent art installations and O2 Concept Store within The O2. | |||
* | |||
* – The Times | |||
{{O2 Venues}} | {{O2 Venues}} | ||
{{Authority control}} | |||
{{DEFAULTSORT:O2, The, London}} | {{DEFAULTSORT:O2, The, London}} | ||
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Latest revision as of 20:27, 21 December 2024
Entertainment district in London, England This article is about the entertainment district incorporating the former Millennium Dome. For the indoor arena within it, see The O2 Arena. For other uses, see O2 (disambiguation). "IndigO2" redirects here. For the Indigo² workstation by Silicon Graphics, see SGI Indigo² and Challenge M.51°30′10.14″N 0°0′11.22″E / 51.5028167°N 0.0031167°E / 51.5028167; 0.0031167
The O2 | |
---|---|
The O2 pictured in 2013 | |
Former names | Millennium Dome (2000) |
General information | |
Type | Entertainment venue |
Architectural style | Dome/tent |
Location | Greenwich Peninsula London, England |
Current tenants | Anschutz Entertainment Group |
Completed | 31 December 1999 (1999-12-31) (original usage) |
Opening | 24 June 2007 (2007-06-24) (current usage) |
Owner | Greater London Authority |
Height | 52 m (central point within canopy) 100 m (steel masts) |
Dimensions | |
Diameter | 365 m (canopy overall) 320 m (internal canopy) |
Technical details | |
Structural system | Steel, tension fabric |
Design and construction | |
Architect(s) | Richard Rogers (canopy) Populous (redeveloped interior) |
Structural engineer | BuroHappold Engineering |
Services engineer | BuroHappold Engineering (canopy) M-E Engineers (redeveloped interior) |
Awards and prizes | Royal Academy of Engineering MacRobert Award |
Website | |
theo2 |
The O2 (formerly known as the Millennium Dome) is a large entertainment district on the Greenwich peninsula in South East London, England, including an indoor arena, a music club, a Cineworld cinema, an exhibition space, piazzas, bars, restaurants, and a guided tour to the top of the O2. It was built largely within the former Millennium Dome, a large dome-shaped canopy built to house an exhibition celebrating the turn of the third millennium; consequently The Dome remains a name in common usage for the venue. It is sometimes referred to as The O2 Arena, but that name properly refers to the indoor arena within The O2. Naming rights to the district were purchased by the mobile telephone provider O2 from its developers, Anschutz Entertainment Group (AEG), during the development of the district. AEG owns the long-term lease on the O2 Arena and surrounding leisure space.
From the closure of the original Millennium Experience exhibition occupying the site, several ways of reusing the Millennium Dome's shell were proposed and then rejected. The renaming of the Dome in 2005 gave publicity to its transition into an entertainment district. The Dome's shell remained in situ, but its interior and the area around North Greenwich Station, the QE2 pier and the main entrance area were completely redeveloped.
The area is served by North Greenwich tube station on the Jubilee line, which was opened just before the millennium exhibition, and by bus routes. Thames Clippers operate a river boat service for London River Services; the present tenants, AEG, purchased Thames Clippers in order to provide river links between central London and The O2. As well as a commuter service, Thames Clippers operates the O2 Express service. Local buses also serve the station and the nearby O2.
On 23 February 2017, O2 announced that they had agreed to a deal with AEG to maintain the naming rights of The O2 for a further 10 years until 2027.
The tent
The dome-shaped structure, which now houses The O2's Entertainment Avenue and arena, was originally constructed as the Millennium Dome and housed the Millennium Experience, a major exhibition to celebrate the start of the third millennium. The exhibition opened to the public on 1 January 2000 and ran until 31 December 2000; however, the project and exhibition was the subject of considerable political controversy and it did not attract the number of visitors anticipated, leading to recurring financial problems.
On 18 February 2022, due to Storm Eunice, the tent of The O2 was damaged, with the fibre-glass canopy covering the roof being partially torn off by high winds of up to 100 mph (160 km/h) in London.
Background to development
In December 2001, the government announced that Meridian Delta had been chosen to develop the Dome as a sports and entertainment centre. Meridian Delta, a subsidiary of Quintain and Lendlease, signed a 999-year lease for the Dome with the government and English Partnerships, a UK governmental body for national regeneration which was assigned the regeneration of the Greenwich Peninsula.
The Dome was sub-leased to Anschutz Entertainment Group (AEG) for 58 years. AEG would develop and operate The O2 during the length of the lease, while the government was entitled to a 15% share of profits for 25 years. The O2 was developed inside the Dome structure by AEG to a design by Populous and Buro Happold at a cost of £350 million.
In 2008, the functions of English Partnerships were transferred to the Homes & Communities Agency, and in 2009, Quintain and Lend Lease sold their interest in Meridian Delta to Trinity College, Cambridge for £24 million.
As part of the investment programme, naming rights were sold to O2; 'The O2' became the project's official name on 25 May 2005. In 2017, O2's name sponsorship was extended for a further ten years. The £6 million per year deal between O2 and AEG included priority tickets and reserved VIP accommodation for O2 mobile customers. The service was also made available to premium ticket holders. O2 started talks with AEG in 2005 to have its logo and branding placed on the roof of the dome, but this did not take place.
AEG have stated that they wish to abolish the 'Dome' name due to its reputation as a failed project, being tagged as 'The White Elephant.' Since its opening, there have been signs of the press and public calling it The O2. It is currently the largest entertainment district in London. To mark its opening, AEG spent £6.5 million on a mass advertising campaign, led by VCCP, throughout Europe to promote The O2.
Construction
The development took place in the form of new buildings being built inside the dome structure. The dome structure was not changed as part of the construction with the exception of blue lights being added to the support poles and plasma displays being added to some of the large sculptures around the dome. Construction started with the arena roof, which was built on the ground and then raised, as cranes could not be used in the dome structure. The construction then moved on to the arena building itself and the entertainment avenue around the arena building. A wide pathway between North Greenwich station and The O2 was also built, as well as the Peninsula Square piazza in front of the dome for special events. A glass roof was built over part of the pathway so that people can walk from the station to The O2 without getting wet in rain. A covered path was also built between the QE2 Pier and The O2's main entrance. Buro Happold provided structural engineering for the project. The main civil engineering and construction contract for the development was awarded to Sir Robert McAlpine. Watson Steel Structures provided engineering for the 4,500 tonne arena roof. M-E Engineers were the building services engineers for the project. T. Clarke were the electrical contractors.
OR Consulting engineers set up a few interactive exhibitions within The O2. Keller Ground engineering prepared the ground for construction. Special ground preparation was necessary due to the contaminated soils from the industrial works which existed at the site before the dome. Catalytic converters were also installed within the dome to prevent toxic gases due to the dome structure being left in place. The plant cylinders, containing services equipment, and some piles used for the original dome, were reused. Financial consulting was provided by WT Partnership and EC Harris. The Waterfront partnership provided legal support for the development and continues to do so for The O2. Kerzner International helped with the development of the entertainment venues.
Super casino proposals
Anschutz planned to build a super casino as one of the attractions, which would lead to further development of the area. The casino was to be developed and operated by Kerzner International. The association of the British Deputy Prime Minister, John Prescott, with Philip Anschutz, head of the entertainment group, gave rise to political controversy, with allegations that Prescott may have used undue influence to support Anschutz's casino licence bid. Prescott had met Anschutz on several occasions and stayed in his ranch for a few days. In August 2006, it was reported that construction of the shell of The O2's casino site had already started. In January 2007 the single trial licence for a British super casino was granted to Manchester. Consequently, AEG announced that the casino would not be built in the near future, and that there would not be enough investment for a high-rise hotel, designed by Richard Rogers, as well as a theatre, a cable car from Canary Wharf and an extended development that was planned adjacent to the dome.
Outlet Shopping
In late 2018, AEG, in association with property firm Crosstree Real Estate Partners, opened a premium retail outlet at the O2, called the Icon Outlet. The centre, which 'completes the loop' at the venue, is set over 210,000 sq.feet and takes up a section of the O2 that was previously intended to house a supercasino.
The new shopping centre opened its doors in October 2018 with thirty stores, however, that number has since increased to over 60. Brands at the Icon Outlet include Levi's, Ted Baker, Asics, Hotel Chocolat, Adidas, Nike, Hackett, Superdry, Clarins, Tommy Hilfiger, Skechers and Jack Wills. The venue also includes a cafe (Cloud Nine), a store that organises sample sales (Showcase.co.)
In August 2023 the Icon name was dropped, with the shopping centre now known as Outlet Shopping at The O2.
Potential developments
In late 2007 marine engineering consultancy Beckett Rankine was appointed to investigate the possibility of a cruise ship terminal being built.
In 2012 it was reported that the O2 would be sold by its owners AEG, as part of the disposal of the entire company's assets, rumoured to be valued around $7 billion.
Opening
The venue, rebranded The O2, was reopened to the public on 24 June 2007 with a concert by Bon Jovi in the arena. The O2 celebrated its first year with a book, including a double page picture of Elton John from his September 2007 Red Piano show. Prior to this reopening, other events took place, including a soft opening for residents of the area to explore the entertainment district and an opening for staff called "The O2 Premiere" which featured Peter Kay, Tom Jones, Kaiser Chiefs and Basement Jaxx. An event called "Out of the Blue" featuring circus acts also took place on the day of the public opening, as part of the Greenwich Festival.
Facilities
Various buildings are housed within the dome structure including an arena, known as The O2 Arena, smaller venue Indigo at The O2, Hollywood Bowl, Cineworld, Sky Studios and an Entertainment Avenue consisting of various restaurants and bars. A new shopping outlet opened in 2018. Backstage there is also a VIP club lounge, operations rooms, a media centre with high definition facilities and a number of dressing rooms, as well as a VIP entrance/exit for performers.
All the venues in the complex use the latest lighting, sound and security technology, including RFID smart card tagging of staff and VIP guests, and digitally managed sound. There are four computer server rooms to provide this technology.
The complex is also covered by CCTV and security personnel. Arena visitors and their bags are screened with X-ray machines and metal detectors at the main entrance.
The O2 Arena
Main article: The O2 ArenaThe O2 Arena (referred to as the North Greenwich Arena for the 2012 Summer Olympics and Paralympics) is a 20,000 capacity venue, primarily used for live music. It is located at the centre of The O2 and was the first new purpose built music venue in London since the Royal Albert Hall in 1871. It is the second largest arena in the UK after the Manchester Arena, but is the busiest music venue in the world.
The arena and its facilities are housed in an independent building within the dome structure. The arena has hosted multiple kinds of music and sporting events and in 2008 exceeded ticket sales for both Madison Square Garden and the Manchester Arena.
Indigo at The O2
Indigo at The O2 is a 2,750-capacity live music club for smaller music events, club events, after shows, corporate and private events. It contains four bars: two on the main ground floor area in front of the stage, one in the VIP lounge called the Purple Lounge and one in the stalls, called Bleachers. The Purple Lounge is not in direct view of the stage, but guests have access to "Kings Row", the best seats in the venue. Indigo at The O2 is managed by Ansco Music Club Limited (the business name of the Indigo part of AEG Live).
The venue hosted "An Audience with Bill Clinton" in 2007. Comedians such as Andy Parsons and Roy Chubby Brown have performed at Indigo. Classic FM hosted several shows throughout 2008. The venue hosted the 'bootcamp' sessions for the reality TV show, The X Factor during the 2008, Series 5 season, and in 2010 was used for the debut of the snooker format, Power Snooker. In 2012 it was the venue for a performance by South Korean pop rock band CN Blue. The Indigo also hosted the 2020 BDO World Darts Championship.
The O2 Bubble
The O2 Bubble was a two-storey bubble-shaped exhibition space built to museum standards, which opened in November 2007. It was made from ETFE, the same material used for the Eden Project, and the bubble itself was reportedly based on the Eden Project. Tutankhamen and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs was the first exhibition in the Bubble and after that was Body Worlds. In October 2009 it was Michael Jackson: The Official Exhibition, a collection of Jackson's personal items from his estate and Neverland Ranch, costumes and props from his tours and videos.
In 2009, the third floor of the bubble became an exhibition called the British Music Experience, a sixty-year retrospective of British popular music. The space, no longer named The O2 Bubble, has hosted various exhibitions including Star Wars Identities, My Name is Prince, Elvis on Tour, and DC Exhibition: Dawn of Super Heroes, and ABBA: Super Troupers The Exhibition, which was terminated earlier than planned, in 2020, due to COVID-19.
The Avenue
The Entertainment Avenue is a wide pedestrian avenue within The O2, with artificial palm trees and other decorations, built around the circular arena building which takes up the centre of the dome structure. The entertainment avenue has buildings on either side, which are leased to tenants who run bars and restaurants, and resembles a shopping centre.
The buildings on the Entertainment Avenue include a music club known as Indigo at The O2, an exhibition space, a cinema managed by Cineworld and 26 bars and restaurants. The cinema includes 11 screens over 2 levels including one 770 capacity auditorium (Sky Super Screen) which is the third largest screen, by screen-size, in London, and the sixth largest screen in the UK. It uses the vista ticketing system, where tickets can be purchased from any stall selling refreshments. Cineworld began operating the cinema, taking over from Vue in 2010.
Fast food outlets have been banned from the development as the theme is 'aspirational but accessible', trying to avoid it being seen as a shopping centre but more like Covent Garden.
Up at The O2
Announced in 2011, Up at The O2 officially opened on 21 June 2012. It involves an expedition across the roof of The O2 along a 190m long tensile fabric walkway. Halfway, a central platform provides 360-degree views of the city, before a descent down to the base of the venue on the other side. From the platform, visitors can see the Olympic Park, Thames Barrier, Historic Royal Greenwich, Canary Wharf and London City Airport The climbing packages are separated depending on which time of day it currently is, Daylight, Sunset and Twilight. They also offer drinks and meals on top of the summit.
Mamma Mia! the Party
In the summer of 2019, a new Mamma Mia! themed attraction opened at the O2. Mamma Mia! the Party was based on a popular Swedish show of the same name, which had enjoyed a successful run at the Tyrol Restaurant in Stockholm.
Taking its cue from the successful movie and theatre production Mamma Mia!, the show relocated the action to a Greek Taverna on the island of Skopelos. The show, which includes a full three course meal, tells the story of taverna owner Nikos and his wife Kate over one night at their family owned restaurant. The show was adapted for the London stage by television celebrity Sandi Toksvig.
Indoor events space
The O2 also has one multi-purpose indoor events space for live music and night clubbing. Competing with other similar events spaces such as Brixton Academy, the club is called Building Six (formerly Matter & Proud2).
Outdoor event spaces
Special events or minor events which did not require or could not be held in the indoor venues were held in the piazzas – The London Piazza, Peninsula Square outside the main entrance of The O2, and the area around the main entrance. The London Piazza, which had featured an indoor beach, ice rink and dry ski slope, was replaced by the Icon shopping outlet.
Hollywood Bowl
Hollywood Bowl is a boutique bowling alley and arcade games space within The O2.
iFLY
In the spring of 2023, a new iFLY indoor skydiving attraction opened, iFLY is an indoor skydiving attraction within The O2, It also offers people to watch the indoor skydiving take place for free.
Chronology of the site
- 1994: The Millennium Commission is established by prime minister John Major and handed over to deputy prime minister Michael Heseltine.
- January 1996: A site on the Greenwich Peninsula is selected. Birmingham, Derby and Stratford, London were also considered.
- May 1999: North Greenwich tube station opens as part of the Jubilee Line Extension, connecting the site to the rest of London by the Underground.
- 22 June 1999: The structure of the Dome is completed.
- 1 January 2000: The site opens to the public as the Millennium Experience, containing an exhibition to celebrate the third millennium.
- 31 December 2000: The Millennium Experience (and the Dome) closes to the public at the end of 2000.
- 18 December 2001: Announcement of sale of the site to Meridian Delta, who plan to turn it into a 20,000-seat sports and entertainment venue. Houses and offices will be built on the surrounding land, subject to the consent of the London Borough of Greenwich.
- 31 May 2005: Anschutz Entertainment Group sell the naming rights to the former Millennium Dome to O2 plc, a British mobile phone company.
- 23 June 2007: The 'O2 premiere' private event opens to staff. Peter Kay, Tom Jones, Kaiser Chiefs and Basement Jaxx perform.
- 24 June 2007: The O2 opens to the public. Bon Jovi is the first band to play the new The O2 Arena.
- 2 September 2007: Disney Channel's High School Musical 2 premieres at The O2; it is the first movie to premiere at the venue.
- 6 April 2008: The Olympic torch relay passes The O2.
- 13 July 2009 – 6 March 2010: On 13 July 2009, Michael Jackson was scheduled to hold a 50-show residency at the arena, titled This Is It. However, the concerts were cancelled following Jackson's death on 25 June 2009. Less than 3 weeks before the first "This Is It" show was due to begin in London.
- 7 June 2010: Bon Jovi become the first band to play on the roof of The O2 to commemorate the beginning of their 12-night residency in the arena.
- 21 June 2012: Up at The O2 officially opened.
- 20 October 2018: The Icon Outlet shopping centre opens at The O2.
- 18 February 2022: The O2’s fabric roof sustained severe damage from exposure to wind speeds of at least 100 mph (160 km/h) during Storm Eunice, which tore open several sections of the roof.
Transport links
London Buses | North Greenwich bus station: 108, 129, 132, 161, 188, 335, 422, 472, 486 |
London Underground | North Greenwich |
London Cable Car | London Cable Car |
River Bus | Thames Clippers RB1 / RB2 |
See also
Notes and references
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- ^ "Storm Eunice tears huge hole in roof of London's O2 Arena in Greenwich". ITV News. 18 February 2022. Archived from the original on 18 February 2022. Retrieved 18 February 2022.
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- O2, The. "ABBA: Super Troupers The Exhibition | The O2". theo2.co.uk. Retrieved 19 July 2024.
{{cite web}}
: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link) - "The O2 – Events & Conferencing". 7 November 2007. Archived from the original on 7 November 2007.
- "Cineworld to operate O2 multiplex | Digital Look". Finance.digitallook.com. 25 June 2010.
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- "The O2 Roofwalk given the green light". AEG. 29 July 2011. Archived from the original on 11 September 2011. Retrieved 16 November 2011.
- "Up at The O2 climb dine".
- Gray, Peter. "Mamma Mia! The Party". city:countdown. Archived from the original on 9 August 2020. Retrieved 5 May 2020.
- Admin (28 September 2018). "Mamma Mia! The Party to Open at London's O2 September 2019". Londontheatre1.
- "Special Events". The O2. 22 January 2008. Archived from the original on 18 December 2007.
- "iFLY launches into The O2 for London debut". theo2. 27 March 2023.
- "Fans attend musical film premiere". BBC News. 2 September 2007. Retrieved 25 May 2010.
- Kreps, Daniel (12 March 2009). "Michael Jackson's "This Is It!" Tour Balloons to 50-Show Run Stretching Into 2010". Rolling Stone. Archived from the original on 13 March 2009. Retrieved 7 December 2021.
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- Blake, Heidi (7 June 2010). "Bon Jovi play on O2 Arena roof". The Daily Telegraph. Archived from the original on 10 June 2010. Retrieved 11 January 2011.
- Barnett, Sophie (18 February 2022). "First pictures inside O2 arena show scale of damage after Storm Eunice rips off roof". LBC.
External links
- The O2 – official site
- The O2 Floor plan
- Detailed report of the dome and Greenwich Peninsula regeneration scheme published by the National Audit Office
- The Millennium Dome at Structurae
- Greenwich MM – MEX – The Dome – The O2 On-going site that documents the run up to the MEX and, now, to The O2
Venues branded by O2 | |
---|---|
- Buildings and structures in the Royal Borough of Greenwich
- Tensile membrane structures
- Buildings and structures celebrating the third millennium
- Richard Rogers buildings
- Domes
- Music venues in London
- Redevelopment projects in London
- Entertainment districts in the United Kingdom
- Tourist attractions in the Royal Borough of Greenwich
- Squash venues
- O2 (UK)
- Darts venues
- Music venues completed in 2007
- 2007 establishments in England