Construction has officially begun on a groundbreaking project to convert the historic Brabazon Hangars at Filton Airfield into a world-class entertainment venue. The £2 billion development, spearheaded by YTL UK, will see the 1940s hangars—where the legendary Concorde aircraft was built—reimagined as a 20,000-capacity arena, set to open in autumn 2028.

A Delicate Transformation
Demolition work is currently underway, with the hangars stripped back to their original steel frames and trusses. This careful dismantling process aims to preserve the structural integrity of the site, honoring its rich aviation history while paving the way for its future as a premier live entertainment hub.

“Demolishing parts of the hangar has been a delicate operation,” said John Thompson, CEO of YTL Construction UK. “We know how important it is to preserve its structure both for its legacy as the birthplace of Concorde and its bright new future.”

The famous Esavian sliding hangar doors have already been removed, offering a dramatic view through the vast structure. Seven significant structural trusses and the existing roof are also being dismantled to make way for the new seating bowl, which promises to deliver an unparalleled concert experience.

A World-Class Venue for Bristol
The upcoming YTL Arena is expected to attract top-tier artists and events, solidifying Bristol’s place on the global entertainment map. According to Andrew Billingham, CEO of YTL Arena, the project represents both a nod to the past and a leap into the future.

“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,” Billingham stated. “Every stage of dismantling brings us closer to welcoming A-list artists and their fans through the doors.”

Adjacent outer structures have already been demolished to clear space for additional developments, including an accessible footbridge that will connect the arena to the broader Brabazon district. This area is part of a larger urban regeneration project, with 6,500 homes currently under construction as part of the government-backed initiative to create one of the UK’s flagship new towns.

Progress on Schedule
The project remains on track to open in 2028, with significant milestones already achieved. In July, developers celebrated the completion of the stripping-out phase, marking a key step forward in the transformation process. Plans are also in motion to increase the arena’s capacity from the initially approved 17,500 to 20,000, pending new planning and licensing approvals.

“This project promises to put Bristol on the world stage,” added Thompson. “We’re excited to deliver a venue that honors the site’s heritage while providing a modern, versatile space for concerts, sports, and other large-scale events.”

Connecting the Community
As part of the development, a new North Filton train station is also under construction, slated to open in late 2026. This addition will enhance accessibility to the arena and surrounding areas, ensuring seamless transportation for visitors.

A Legacy Reimagined
The Brabazon Hangars have long stood as a symbol of innovation and engineering excellence. With this ambitious redevelopment, YTL UK aims to blend the site’s storied past with cutting-edge design, creating a venue that pays homage to its roots while embracing the demands of contemporary entertainment.

Artists’ impressions shared by Grimshaw Architects showcase a sleek, modern interior that retains elements of the hangars’ industrial charm. The result will be a unique space capable of hosting everything from music concerts and comedy shows to sporting events and exhibitions.

Looking Ahead
As construction progresses, anticipation builds for what promises to be one of the most exciting cultural landmarks in the UK. The YTL Arena not only represents a monumental achievement in architectural preservation but also a beacon of opportunity for Bristol and the South West region.

Stay tuned for updates as this transformative project takes shape, bringing world-class entertainment to the heart of South Gloucestershire.

The Brabazon Hangars, birthplace of the Concorde, are being meticulously transformed into a state-of-the-art arena capable of hosting 20,000 fans and A-list artists.