A nationally significant sports venue, designed by Sunderland based Fitz Architects has unveiled CGIs and a new name that reflects the huge role it will play in advancing esports.

The British Arena, a new 15,000 sq.ft multi-use venue that is being developed by the British Esports Federation – the national gaming federation behind the arena – has shared stunning plans that were created by Fitz’s architectural team, which bring to life the ambition to convert a former car showroom into a state-of-the-art Esports venue.

Construction of the British Arena is well underway, with Fitz having supported right through from the planning application submission to building regulations support.    

A fly-through video and mock-up images of the arena interior, exterior, cafe, social space and arcade area showcase a space that will be equipped with a 200-seat and 400-standing main stage theatre, a 17m LED screen, full 5G capability, broadcast, content and editing studios, retail and hospitality, performance rooms and an expansive 550sqm secure outdoor activation space, with a car park.  There’s also a lounge and bar space which has capacity for 350 standing guests, including an arcade zone.

The venue will sit alongside the existing National Esports Performance Campus facilities and The Place accommodation located in Sunniside, the heart of Sunderland, opposite the Stadium of Light, the home of Premier League football team AFC Sunderland.

The British Arena is located in the transforming Sheepfolds area, close to BDN-led Sheepfolds Stables, which is part of Riverside Sunderland, a development that is held up as one of the UK’s most ambitious regeneration projects.