Greenwich Council has given the go-ahead to Anschutz Entertainment Group (AEG) to develop the site of the Dome in London, now renamed O2. The plans are extensive, five buildings around squares designed to give an open air atmosphere and a pedestrian street around a 23,000-seat arena already under construction. The arena will be part of the facilities being built for the 2012 Olympics and will host the 2009 World Gymnastics Championships.

AEG intends to create a new leisure experience for the UK, on the lines of the entertainment venues in Las Vegas. If it gets permission from the Government, the company will build a casino on 8% of the area and a hotel. An 11-screen cinema, 2,200 capacity live music venue, 15 bars and restaurants, six shops, a rock ‘n roll hall of fame and a temporary ice rink are part of Phase I of the development that received planning permission from Greenwich Council last week.

Earlier this year developers Meridian Delta Limited gained approval to build 10,000 homes, offices and shops on the site. Conditions include the provision of green spaces, a design that will promote walking, cycling and public transport, and links to East Greenwich. O2 is scheduled to open in 2007 and the AEG vision is for it to become ‘the most exciting music, entertainment and sport destination in Europe – where everyone can come and play.’ (E-10.06.05)

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