Dundee’s cultural landscape is about to undergo a significant transformation with the imminent opening of LiveHouse, a state-of-the-art entertainment venue set to launch in December 2024.
The new arena, which boasts a capacity of 4,500, will become Scotland’s third-largest venue, trailing only behind Glasgow’s OVO Hydro and Aberdeen’s P&J Live.
Located in the heart of Dundee’s city centre, LiveHouse is being developed on the site of the former Mecca Bingo hall on Nethergate. The £15 million project is spearheaded by TDI, a Dundee-based company led by director Michael Carolan, who previously oversaw the transformation of the former Tay Hotel into the Malmaison.
The venue’s versatility is expected to be a key factor in its success. LiveHouse will not only host musical performances but also cater to conferences, exhibitions, and even esports events.
This multi-purpose approach aims to attract a diverse range of events and audiences to the city. The development of LiveHouse marks the culmination of a six-year journey since plans were first proposed to redevelop the Nethergate site into a concert venue.
The project has evolved significantly from earlier proposals, which included plans for a 6,000-capacity venue in 2018 and a more ambitious 10,000-capacity arena in 2022.
LiveHouse’s central location is expected to play a crucial role in revitalising Dundee’s city centre. The venue’s potential to draw visitors from across Scotland is significant, with estimates suggesting it could serve up to 80% of the Scottish population.
As the opening date approaches, there is growing anticipation about the positive impact LiveHouse will have on Dundee’s economy and cultural offerings. However, experts emphasise the importance of supporting infrastructure, particularly in terms of transportation, to ensure the venue’s long-term success and accessibility for visitors from across the region.
The transformation of the former Mecca Bingo hall into LiveHouse not only preserves a piece of Dundee’s architectural history but also breathes new life into a site with a rich entertainment legacy dating back to 1936.
As Dundee prepares to welcome this exciting addition to its cultural landscape, LiveHouse stands poised to become a cornerstone of the city’s ongoing regeneration efforts.
