Hubbry Logo
The O2The O2Main
Open search
The O2
Community hub
The O2
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
The O2
The O2
The O2
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

51°30′10.14″N 0°0′11.22″E / 51.5028167°N 0.0031167°E / 51.5028167; 0.0031167

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.

Key Information

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.[2]

The tent

[edit]

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;[3] however, the project and exhibition was the subject of considerable political controversy[4][5][6] and it did not attract the number of visitors anticipated,[7] leading to recurring financial problems.[8]

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.[9]

Background to development

[edit]
The O2 in 2004, when it was the Millennium Dome

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.[10]

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.[11] The O2 was developed inside the Dome structure by AEG to a design by Populous and Buro Happold at a cost of £350 million.[10]

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.[12]

As part of the investment programme, naming rights were sold to O2; 'The O2' became the project's official name on 25 May 2005.[13] In 2017, O2's name sponsorship was extended for a further ten years.[11] The £6 million per year deal between O2 and AEG included priority tickets and reserved VIP accommodation for O2 mobile customers.[14] 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,[15] 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.'[6] Since its opening, there have been signs of the press and public calling it The O2.[16][17][18][19] It is currently the largest entertainment district in London.[20] To mark its opening, AEG spent £6.5 million on a mass advertising campaign, led by VCCP, throughout Europe to promote The O2.[21]

Construction

[edit]

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.[22] Watson Steel Structures provided engineering for the 4,500 tonne arena roof.[23] M-E Engineers were the building services engineers for the project. T. Clarke were the electrical contractors.[24]

OR Consulting engineers set up a few interactive exhibitions within The O2.[25][26] 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.[27] Financial consulting was provided by WT Partnership and EC Harris.[26] The Waterfront partnership provided legal support for the development and continues to do so for The O2.[28] Kerzner International helped with the development of the entertainment venues.[29]

Super casino proposals

[edit]

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.[29] 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.[30] In August 2006, it was reported that construction of the shell of The O2's casino site had already started.[31] 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.[29]

Outlet Shopping

[edit]

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.[32]

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.)[33]

In August 2023 the Icon name was dropped, with the shopping centre now known as Outlet Shopping at The O2.[34]

Potential developments

[edit]

In late 2007 marine engineering consultancy Beckett Rankine was appointed to investigate the possibility of a cruise ship terminal being built.[35]

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.[36]

Opening

[edit]
The O2 in 2012, with Canary Wharf in the background

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.[37] 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

[edit]
The O2 concourse. The arena entrance can be seen in the background. Designed by Jordan Parnass Digital Architecture.

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, Virgin Media Gamepad and an Entertainment Avenue consisting of various restaurants and bars.[38] 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.[39] There are four computer server rooms to provide this technology.[40]

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.[41][42]

The O2 Arena

[edit]
Main article: The O2 Arena
O2 Arena during the ATP World Tour Finals
Inside the O2 Arena

The 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.[43] It is the second largest arena in the UK after the Manchester Arena, but is the busiest music venue in the world.[44]

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.[45]

Indigo at The O2

[edit]

Indigo at The O2 is a 2,750-capacity live music club for smaller music events, club events, after shows, corporate and private events.[28] 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[clarification needed] 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.[46] In 2012 it was the venue for a performance by South Korean pop rock band CN Blue.[47] The Indigo also hosted the 2020 BDO World Darts Championship.[48]

The O2 Bubble

[edit]

The O2 Bubble was a two-storey bubble-shaped exhibition space[49] 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.[50] 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.[51]

In 2009, the third[contradictory] floor of the bubble became an exhibition called the British Music Experience, a sixty-year retrospective of British popular music.[52] 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.[53]

The Avenue

[edit]
The 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.

Entrance to Cineworld at the O2

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.[54] 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.[55]

Fast food outlets had originally 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.[56][19] This has since been relaxed with the opening of a KFC restaurant in February 2025.[57]

Up at The O2

[edit]

Announced in 2011,[58] 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.[59]

Mamma Mia! the Party

[edit]

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.[60]

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.[61]

Indoor events space

[edit]

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).

The dance floor of Matter, since reopened as Proud2

Outdoor event spaces

[edit]

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[62] and dry ski slope, was replaced by the Icon shopping outlet.

Hollywood Bowl

[edit]

Hollywood Bowl is a boutique bowling alley and arcade games space within The O2.

iFLY

[edit]

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.[63]

Chronology of the site

[edit]
  • 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.[64]
  • 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.[65][66] 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.[67]
  • 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.[9][68]
[edit]
Public transport access
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

[edit]

Notes and references

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

The O2

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The O2 is a major entertainment district situated on the Greenwich Peninsula in southeast London, comprising the O2 Arena—a multi-purpose indoor venue with a capacity of up to 20,000 spectators—along with an 11-screen cinema, exhibition spaces, restaurants, and leisure outlets such as the British Music Experience. Originally built as the Millennium Dome to host the Millennium Experience exhibition marking the year 2000, the structure was completed under its construction budget of £43 million but became mired in controversy due to the exhibition's overall costs exceeding £789 million, far above initial estimates, and its failure to attract the projected 12 million visitors, drawing only about 6.5 million before closing after one year. Repurposed through a private redevelopment led by AEG, it reopened in 2007 as The O2, swiftly establishing itself as the world's busiest music arena, having hosted over 3,000 events and sold more than 30 million tickets by 2023, with annual sales surpassing 2.5 million in recent record-breaking years. This transformation from a publicly funded "white elephant" criticized for wasteful expenditure to a commercially viable powerhouse underscores effective private sector intervention in salvaging underutilized infrastructure.

Overview

Site Description and Architectural Legacy

The O2 complex occupies the Greenwich Peninsula in southeast London, on the south bank of the River Thames, spanning a regenerated industrial site formerly used for shipbuilding and gasworks. The central feature is the iconic dome structure, originally constructed as the Millennium Dome between 1996 and 1999, with a diameter of 365 meters—symbolizing the days in a non-leap year—and a maximum height of 50 meters, enclosing an area of approximately 80,000 square meters. This makes it one of the largest enclosed spaces in Europe, capable of holding over 20,000 people under its single roof. Architecturally, the dome was designed by the Richard Rogers Partnership (now RSHP) in collaboration with engineers Buro Happold, employing a high-tech tensile membrane system. The roof consists of 180,000 square meters of PTFE-coated glass-fiber fabric stretched across twelve 100-meter-tall steel masts, connected by 70 kilometers of cabling, creating a lightweight, translucent enclosure that allows natural light diffusion while minimizing material use. Symbolic elements include the twelve masts representing months and the one-kilometer circumference evoking the meridian line at Greenwich, integrating the structure with its site's astronomical heritage. The architectural legacy of the dome lies in its pioneering use of tensioned fabric roofs, advancing sustainable, large-span enclosure techniques that influenced subsequent stadium and exhibition designs worldwide, such as temporary structures for events like the Olympics. Though the original Millennium Experience exhibition it housed from December 1999 to December 2000 attracted fewer visitors than anticipated—around 6.5 million against a target of 12 million—leading to financial losses exceeding £600 million, the robust shell's adaptability enabled its 2007 transformation into The O2 entertainment district without major structural alterations, underscoring the value of flexible, enduring frameworks over short-term programmatic specificity. This repurposing has sustained the structure's viability, hosting over 50 million visitors annually in recent years through integrated arenas, retail, and leisure facilities.

Economic and Cultural Significance

The O2 complex has generated substantial economic benefits for London, particularly through tourism, employment, and revenue from events and retail. In 2024, it recorded over 10 million visitors, a 12% increase from 2023, alongside record sales volumes driven by concerts, sports, and leisure activities. The arena alone achieved turnover of £130 million and operating profit of £57.8 million that year, reflecting sustained post-pandemic recovery and high demand for live entertainment. These figures underscore its role in supporting the UK's live music sector, which contributed £6.1 billion to the economy in 2023, with London accounting for 31% of that impact. Employment impacts include support for approximately 2,900 additional jobs in the London economy, stemming from operations, events, and induced spending. Locally, The O2 injects over £300 million annually into the Greenwich borough via visitor expenditures and partnerships with tourism bodies like Visit Greenwich. Since its 2007 redevelopment, cumulative profits have exceeded $200 million, demonstrating effective private-sector transformation of a prior public failure into a profitable asset. Culturally, The O2 stands as a flagship venue for global artists and events, hosting performances by acts including AC/DC, Beyoncé, Coldplay, and Elton John, which draw international audiences and reinforce London's preeminence in live music. As the world's busiest music arena by ticket sales—over 2.6 million in 2024—it has hosted diverse programming from comedy to ATP World Tour Finals tennis, fostering a multifaceted entertainment ecosystem. This repositioning of the Millennium Dome structure has embedded it in London's cultural landscape, symbolizing adaptive urban renewal and attracting 7.5 million music tourists to the city in 2024, who spent £2.7 billion.

Historical Development

Conception and Construction as Millennium Dome

The Millennium Dome project originated in 1994 under Prime Minister John Major's Conservative government, which proposed a national festival to mark the arrival of the third millennium, with a central exhibition in a purpose-built dome on the Greenwich Peninsula in southeast London. The site was selected for its historical significance tied to Greenwich Mean Time and maritime heritage, aiming to regenerate a derelict former gasworks area. Funding came from the Millennium Commission, established in 1993 as an independent body to distribute National Lottery proceeds for celebratory projects, allocating initial resources for the Dome as one of 190 landmarks. In 1997, the New Millennium Experience Company (NMEC) was formed to oversee development and operations, with Jennie Page appointed as chief executive. The architectural design was led by Richard Rogers of Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners, featuring a tensile fabric roof supported by a steel mast and cable net, creating an enclosed space of 87,000 square meters at a structural cost of £43 million—equivalent to approximately £50 per square meter. Construction commenced in June 1997 with the driving of 8,000 foundation piles, followed by a concrete ring beam and service infrastructure, achieving completion within 15 months despite the scale, which made it the fifth-largest building by usable volume upon opening in December 1999. The total project expenditure reached £789 million by completion, encompassing not only the enclosure but also exhibition content, infrastructure, and preparatory works, though the Dome's shell represented just 7% of this figure. Engineering firm Buro Happold handled structural and environmental systems, emphasizing efficiency in a tight timeline that prioritized rapid assembly over complexity. The structure's emblematic, non-hierarchical form was intended to symbolize openness and flexibility for the Millennium Experience exhibition, open to the public from January 1 to December 31, 2000.

Failure of the Millennium Experience

The Millennium Experience, housed within the Millennium Dome, operated from 1 January to 31 December 2000, but failed to meet its commercial objectives due to substantially lower visitor numbers than projected. Organizers anticipated 12 million paying visitors to break even, equivalent to approximately 33,000 per day, but actual attendance reached only about 6.5 million by the end of the year. In its first month, the attraction drew just 366,420 visitors, or roughly 11,000 daily, representing only 3% of the annual break-even target. Financial shortfalls stemmed primarily from these unmet attendance and revenue goals, as identified in a National Audit Office (NAO) review, which described the original targets as "highly ambitious" and unachievable amid operational realities. The total cost of the project, including construction and operations, escalated to £789 million by the liquidation of the New Millennium Experience Company in 2002, exceeding initial budgets funded largely by National Lottery proceeds (£449 million) and private sponsorships that underperformed. Additional government funding of around £170 million was required to sustain operations through closure, rendering the venture a net loss for public funds. Contributing factors included pre-opening mismanagement, with the NAO report highlighting risks such as over-reliance on optimistic projections without adequate contingency planning, political interventions that prioritized spectacle over viability, and content perceived as uninspiring or overly didactic, often criticized as "tat and tacky politically correct exhibits." High ticket prices, starting at £20 for adults, deterred broader attendance amid competition from free millennium events elsewhere, while sponsor withdrawals and logistical issues further eroded income. The NAO concluded the project was financially weak from inception, with insufficient private sector commitment exacerbating taxpayer exposure. Post-closure assessments underscored the Dome's status as a symbol of governmental overreach, with maintenance costs estimated at around £665,000 monthly during 2001 vacancy, though some claims of higher figures were disputed as exaggerated. The failure prompted scrutiny of public project governance, influencing subsequent policy on lottery funding and large-scale events.

Private Redevelopment into Entertainment Complex

In the wake of the Millennium Experience's closure on December 31, 2000, the Dome structure and surrounding 190 acres remained vacant, incurring maintenance costs of £1 million per month for the UK government. Unable to secure outright sales after two failed attempts, the government transferred ownership in May 2002 to the private Meridian Delta consortium—led by American billionaire Philip Anschutz (founder of AEG, or Anschutz Entertainment Group) in partnership with UK developer Quintain Estates—for no upfront payment, in exchange for a projected £550 million share of future profits over 20 years. This deal shifted all operational risks to the private developers, who committed to maintaining the Dome until at least 2018, marking a pivot from public subsidy to market-driven viability. Meridian Delta's vision centered on repurposing the Dome's 100,000 square meter enclosure into a mixed-use entertainment district, retaining the iconic tensile fabric roof while gutting and refitting the interior. AEG, as the operational lead, invested approximately £500 million ($914 million) in the project, constructing a 23,000-seat indoor arena—the largest of its kind globally at the time—alongside a 2,200-seat music club, cinema complex, retail outlets, restaurants, and exhibition spaces arranged around an "Entertainment Avenue." Commercial contracts with the government's English Partnerships agency were finalized in June 2004, enabling construction to commence shortly thereafter under architects HOK and structural engineers Buro Happold. On May 25, 2005, AEG secured naming rights from mobile provider O2 plc in a multi-year deal valued at over £6 million annually (equivalent to $11 million), rebranding the site as The O2 to signal its commercial entertainment focus. The redevelopment opened to the public in stages starting June 2007, with the arena debuting on June 24 via a Prince concert, transforming the site from a symbol of fiscal overreach into a revenue-generating venue projected to host concerts, sports, and leisure activities. This private initiative succeeded where public efforts faltered by prioritizing scalable, demand-driven amenities over thematic exhibits, though government profit shares have yielded minimal returns relative to original costs.

Core Facilities

The O2 Arena and Performance Venues

The O2 Arena serves as the primary performance venue within The O2 complex, functioning as a multi-purpose indoor arena with a maximum capacity of 20,000 seated spectators. Designed for large-scale events, it accommodates concerts, sporting competitions, family shows, and conferences, featuring flexible staging configurations and advanced audiovisual systems to support diverse productions. Since its opening on 24 June 2007, the arena has hosted over 200 events annually, establishing itself as Europe's largest indoor entertainment venue by attendance. Operated by AEG Presents, the arena has achieved significant milestones, including the sale of more than 30 million tickets by the end of 2023, driven by residencies from artists such as Take That and high-profile sporting events like the ATP World Tour Finals from 2021 to 2023. Its infrastructure includes direct vehicle access for production loads and modular seating that allows reconfiguration between end-stage concert setups and in-the-round formats, enhancing adaptability for performers and audiences. Complementing the main arena, indigo at The O2 provides a mid-sized performance space with a capacity of 2,750 for standing events or up to 2,800 seated, catering to intimate live music gigs, comedy performances, club nights, and private functions. Launched in July 2007 as part of the complex's initial redevelopment phase, the venue features a built-in stage, flexible room layouts for up to 1,000 conference delegates or 540 banquet guests, and an electric atmosphere suited for emerging artists and after-show parties. Positioned adjacent to the arena under the same tensile roof structure, indigo enables seamless event programming across scales, contributing to The O2's reputation for comprehensive entertainment offerings.

Retail and Dining Precincts

The retail precinct at The O2, branded as Outlet Shopping at The O2, comprises over 60 designer brand stores offering discounts of up to 70% off recommended retail prices across categories including athleisure, tailoring, beauty, and homeware on two levels. Key tenants include Adidas, Calvin Klein, Nike, Tommy Hilfiger, Next, ASICS, and recent London outlet debuts such as kate spade new york and All Good Things in 2024 and 2025. Sales in this outlet grew by 11% from January to June 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, supported by increased footfall across the complex. The dining precinct, primarily within the Entertainment District, features 47 food and drink establishments, including 33 restaurants, 11 bars, and 3 cafes or snack outlets, with 36 located in the district and 11 inside the arena. These offer diverse cuisines such as American (9 options), Asian (5), Italian (4), and Latin American (3), alongside pubs and halal-certified choices like Afrikana. Notable venues include Gordon Ramsay Street Burger, Haidilao Hot Pot, and JD Wetherspoon's The Stargazer, which opened in 2023 as part of full leasing completion. Overall food and beverage sales across retail, leisure, and dining rose 6% in 2024, contributing to the precincts' role in attracting over 10 million visitors that year.

Experiential and Adventure Attractions

Up at The O2 offers a guided climbing experience over the venue's iconic tensile roof, involving a 90-minute ascent to a height of 52 meters, where participants traverse a purpose-built walkway while harnessed for safety and enjoy 360-degree panoramic views extending up to 15 miles on clear days. The activity accommodates various skill levels through options like daytime, twilight, sunset, and celebration climbs, with tickets starting at £37 per person. Launched as a key redevelopment feature, it emphasizes physical challenge and elevated sightseeing without requiring prior climbing expertise. iFLY Indoor Skydiving, situated within The O2 complex, simulates freefall skydiving in a vertical wind tunnel, allowing participants to experience sustained flight at speeds up to 120 mph without jumping from an aircraft. Sessions typically include multiple flights lasting 60 seconds each in the tunnel, preceded by training with certified instructors, and are accessible to ages 4 and above with no upper weight limit beyond standard safety checks. This attraction replicates the sensations of outdoor skydiving while eliminating risks associated with altitude and weather. Additional experiential attractions include Activate, a facility blending physical agility challenges with interactive gaming elements such as laser tag, archery tag, and puzzle-based obstacles, designed for group participation and priced from £22.50 per player on weekdays. TOCA Social provides immersive football experiences using touchscreen technology and ball-tracking sensors for virtual matches and skill drills, appealing to non-professional players seeking simulated professional training. These offerings complement the adventure-focused activities by integrating technology-driven exertion and social competition within the complex's entertainment ecosystem.

Operational Performance

Attendance and Revenue Milestones

Since its opening in 2007, The O2 entertainment complex has attracted more than 100 million visitors overall. The O2 Arena, its primary concert and events venue, has sold over 30 million tickets cumulatively through the end of 2023. These figures underscore the site's transformation from the underperforming Millennium Dome into a global leader in live entertainment attendance. Annual attendance at the complex reached a milestone in 2024 with over 10 million visitors, marking a 12% increase from 2023 and the highest volume to date. Arena ticket sales also set records, with 2.5 million sold in 2023 across 216 music, sports, and comedy events, followed by 2.6 million in 2024—a 3.5% rise driven by high-profile residencies and tours. Revenue milestones reflect this operational success, with the arena's operating entity reporting a record turnover of £130 million for the year ended March 2024, up from £122.3 million the prior year, alongside record profits attributed to increased event volume and premium pricing. Earlier, in 2023, daily revenue averaged over £500,000 amid a 12% overall increase. These financial highs position The O2 as the world's busiest music arena by ticket sales.

Employment and Visitor Impact

The O2 entertainment complex in Greenwich, London, directly employs over 4,000 individuals across its operations, encompassing arena staffing, retail outlets, dining establishments, and leisure attractions such as Up at The O2 climbing experiences. These roles span full-time positions in event management and technical support to part-time opportunities in hospitality and customer service, with indirect employment generated through supply chains and associated tourism services. Annual visitor figures underscore the site's substantial draw, reaching a record 10.2 million in 2024, a 12% increase from the prior year, driven by concerts, sports events, and retail-dining precincts. This influx supports broader economic multipliers, including £500 million in yearly contributions to the UK economy via on-site spending and induced activity in transport and accommodations. Visitor impacts extend to Greenwich borough revitalization, where The O2's partnerships with local tourism bodies like Visit Greenwich enhance regional footfall, with 34% of leisure attendees subsequently spending on food and beverage, outperforming UK benchmarks for destination retention. Cumulatively, since its 2007 reopening, the complex has hosted over 60 million visitors, fostering sustained job stability amid fluctuating event calendars while channeling revenues into community programs that address local skills gaps in entertainment sectors.

Controversies and Criticisms

Government Waste in Original Project

The New Millennium Experience Company (NMEC), established to deliver the Millennium Dome exhibition, received an initial lottery grant of up to £449 million from the Millennium Commission in July 1997, with the project approved on the basis of a balanced £758 million budget covering both costs and expected revenues. However, by December 2001, NMEC's actual expenditure reached £789 million, reflecting overruns from the original £758 million forecast in May 1997 and incorporating additional post-opening grants totaling £60 million awarded by the Commission to sustain operations. These escalations stemmed from underestimated construction and operational demands, including the depletion of a £25 million contingency reserve for revenue shortfalls before the Dome even opened to the public on 1 January 2000, rendering the project financially unviable from inception according to a National Audit Office assessment. Critics highlighted systemic inefficiencies, such as optimistic attendance projections of 12 million visitors that fell short at around 6.5 million, leading to operating losses that necessitated further public subsidy despite the lottery-funded mandate to avoid direct taxpayer burden. The National Audit Office report detailed how NMEC's rigid budgeting constrained adaptive responses to underperformance, exacerbating waste through fixed costs on exhibits and infrastructure that generated insufficient income, with total public sector outlay—including decommissioning—exceeding initial estimates by over £30 million. Post-closure in December 2000, the government incurred an additional £28.7 million in maintenance, security, and sale facilitation costs through the English Partnerships agency over four years, underscoring the opportunity costs of a project that yielded no return on the £789 million investment and required eventual fire-sale disposal. Parliamentary scrutiny, including from the Public Accounts Committee, attributed much of the waste to flawed risk management and over-reliance on sponsorship revenues that materialized below targets, with NMEC's failure to achieve break-even forcing reliance on contingency funds originally earmarked for contingencies rather than core build-out. Although lottery proceeds—derived from ticket sales rather than general taxation—formed the bulk of funding, the Commission's allocation represented foregone opportunities for other UK-wide millennium projects, amplifying perceptions of inefficiency in a venture that prioritized spectacle over fiscal prudence. Independent analyses, such as those from the Taxpayers' Alliance, later framed the Dome as emblematic of broader governmental overruns, contributing to a pattern where public projects exceeded budgets by averages of 33.7 percent across 305 initiatives.

Management and Visitor Experience Issues

The O2 Arena has encountered persistent criticisms for inadequate crowd management during peak events, with visitors frequently reporting congestion, long queues, and insufficient facilities to accommodate high volumes. For example, attendees at a Peter Kay concert on April 22 described the venue as "woefully unable" to handle the influx, resulting in disorganized entry and exit processes that exacerbated discomfort. These issues stem from the arena's capacity of up to 20,000 for concerts, which, while a commercial strength, strains infrastructure during sell-out shows without proportional enhancements in staffing or flow design. Accessibility challenges for disabled visitors represent a core visitor experience shortfall, despite the venue's self-proclaimed "gold standard" in customer service awards. Reports detail steep, unrailed steps on Level 1, lack of proactive staff assistance, and barriers to equitable participation, rendering events effectively inaccessible for some with mobility impairments. In November 2024, a disability advocacy analysis criticized the dedicated ticket line system as unreliable, with users facing repeated failed connection attempts—up to 76 calls in one case—during presale windows, prioritizing able-bodied buyers and violating principles of fair access under UK equality laws. Seating and comfort complaints further undermine the experience, including cramped arrangements with minimal legroom that prioritize density over ergonomics, leading to physical strain during performances lasting 2-3 hours. User reviews on platforms like Trustpilot, averaging 1.8 out of 5, attribute this to indifferent management practices, with staff described as unresponsive or incompetent in addressing disruptions like unauthorized seat encroachments or equipment failures. Ticket validation errors have compounded frustrations, with venue sponsor O2 reporting that hundreds of fans are denied entry per major gig due to invalid or counterfeit tickets, often linked to secondary market resales without robust verification protocols at entry points. Management under AEG Europe has defended operations by emphasizing security measures, including extensive staffing for bag checks and patrols, but critics argue these reactive approaches fail to preempt visitor dissatisfaction rooted in scalable design flaws.

Recent Developments and Future Outlook

Post-2020 Recovery and Records

Following the COVID-19 pandemic closures that halted live events in 2020 and limited operations in 2021, The O2 experienced a robust recovery driven by pent-up demand for live entertainment, retail, and leisure activities. By 2022, the arena sold 2.3 million tickets across events, marking a significant rebound from near-zero activity during lockdowns. This uptick reflected broader industry trends where revenues from large-scale events not only recovered but exceeded pre-pandemic levels due to postponed tours and heightened consumer interest in in-person experiences. In 2023, The O2 achieved a then-record 2.5 million arena tickets sold over more than 200 events, a 9.3% increase from the prior year, solidifying its status as the world's busiest music arena. This performance contributed to pre-tax profits of £58.4 million, surpassing previous highs. The following year, 2024, saw consecutive records with over 2.6 million tickets sold—a 3.5% rise—fueled by residencies from artists like Take That, who broke their own venue record with 39 performances during their This Life on Tour. Beyond concerts, sports events set new benchmarks; the BetMGM Premier League Darts Play-Offs drew a UK record crowd of 14,000 fans. Overall venue footfall reached 10 million visitors in 2024, a 12% increase from 2023 and the highest ever recorded, boosting sales across entertainment, shopping, and dining. Financially, pre-tax profits climbed to £64.8 million for the year ending in 2024, supported by high-profile acts including The Killers and residencies by Peter Kay and Olivia Rodrigo. These milestones underscore The O2's adaptation to post-pandemic preferences for immersive, large-scale gatherings, with sustained growth through 2025.

Sustainability and Expansion Initiatives

The O2 has implemented various sustainability measures as part of AEG Europe's 1Earth programme, aiming for net-zero carbon emissions. In 2019, it introduced a green cleaning program using environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional chemicals. By 2022, the venue achieved Greener Arena certification as the first in England, following initiatives like hosting plant-based menu promotions and reducing single-use plastics. Key waste reduction efforts include eliminating single-use plastics from concessions, adopting seaweed-based serveware, installing water-refill stations, and transitioning to a reusable cup system to minimize event waste. In November 2023, The O2 launched the UK's first "Green Rider" policy, encouraging artists to adopt sustainable practices such as digital production riders and reduced freight emissions. The venue pioneered "carbon removed" events in September 2023, partnering with carbon removal providers; a 2024 pilot across four shows extracted and removed 545.9 tonnes of residual carbon, equivalent to the annual electricity use of 395 homes. Energy and transport initiatives feature optimized arena efficiencies, procurement of green electricity, and investment in electric vehicles to phase out fossil fuels, with further installations planned for 2025 including electric forklifts. In December 2024, The O2 earned "Commended" status under the Greener Arena scheme for advancements in carbon removal, energy efficiency, waste management, and electric vehicle adoption, demonstrating measurable environmental impact reductions. These efforts position the venue as a leader in sustainable live entertainment, though full net-zero achievement remains ongoing. Expansion initiatives have focused on internal repurposing rather than major structural additions. In September 2025, an application was submitted to convert underutilized retail units in The O2's shopping centre into new leisure spaces, enhancing the complex's experiential offerings amid stable operational growth. The venue's long-term lease was sold in August 2025 to a pensions insurer, providing financial security for future developments without specified large-scale builds. Projections for 2025 indicate continued revenue and EBITDA growth from event pipelines, supporting incremental enhancements but no announced arena capacity expansions.

Accessibility and Infrastructure

Transport Connectivity

The O2 benefits from direct access via North Greenwich Underground station on the Jubilee line, situated immediately adjacent to the venue. This connection enables rapid transit from central London in about 20 minutes or from Stratford in 10 minutes, supporting high-volume event attendance without reliance on road networks. Multiple bus routes operated by Transport for London serve the site, stopping at North Greenwich station, including lines 132, 161, 180, 188, 335, 422, 472, and 486. Coach services also terminate nearby, with fares starting from £6 and amenities like onboard facilities. River transport is available through Uber Boat by Thames Clippers, docking at North Greenwich Pier directly beside The O2, with services running every 10-20 minutes from morning to evening, seven days a week. Post-event express sailings connect to piers such as London Bridge, Waterloo, and Battersea Power Station for onward rail links. The IFS Cloud Cable Car (formerly Emirates Air Line) links the Greenwich Peninsula terminal, proximate to The O2, across the Thames to Royal Docks, spanning 1 km at heights up to 90 meters and facilitating access to ExCeL London. While primarily a tourist attraction, it integrates with the local transport ecosystem. National Rail stations at Greenwich and Charlton are the nearest, supplemented by bus or boat shuttles during disruptions to Underground services. The venue emphasizes public transport use, with limited on-site parking and designated drop-off zones to mitigate congestion.

Site Chronology and Adaptations

Construction of the Millennium Dome began in June 1997 on the Greenwich Peninsula, following approval despite initial funding challenges after the Labour government's election. The tensile structure, featuring a cable-net roof spanning 365 meters in diameter and supported by 12 yellow masts each 100 meters tall, was assembled using 1,600 tonnes of steel sections, with masts erected by October 1997 and the fabric skin completed by mid-1999. The Dome opened on 31 December 1999 for millennium eve celebrations, transitioning to the Millennium Experience exhibition on 1 January 2000, which operated daily until its closure on 31 December 2000 amid low attendance and financial shortfalls that failed to cover operational costs. Post-closure, the site remained largely vacant, hosting only a temporary Winter Wonderland event in December 2003, before a 99-year lease was granted to Meridian Delta (a Quintain Estates and Anschutz Entertainment Group joint venture) in late 2001 for redevelopment into a mixed-use entertainment district. On 31 May 2005, the site was rebranded The O2 under a naming rights deal with telecom firm O2, valued at £6 million annually, signaling the shift to a commercial entertainment complex. Redevelopment involved gutting the interior while preserving the iconic dome envelope, installing a central 20,000-capacity arena with innovative under-dome seating and acoustic design, alongside an "Entertainment Avenue" with shops, restaurants, a 11-screen cinema, and exhibition spaces; construction adapted the existing roof height constraints using modular steel frameworks. The O2 officially reopened on 24 June 2007 with a Bon Jovi concert in the arena, marking its transformation from a short-lived exhibition hall to one of Europe's premier indoor venues, with subsequent adaptations including the 2012 launch of the Up at The O2 climbing attraction over the dome's roof.

References

  1. https://list.co.uk/venues/the-o2-arena-4695
  2. https://www.ice.org.uk/what-is-civil-engineering/infrastructure-projects/millennium-dome
  3. https://www.theo2.co.uk/news/detail/the-worlds-busiest-arena-the-o2-celebrates-record-breaking-2023
  4. https://www.theo2.co.uk/news/detail/at-the-top-of-its-game-the-o2-celebrates-another-record-breaking-year-at-the-worlds-busiest-live-entertainment-arena
  5. https://rshp.com/projects/culture-and-leisure/the-millennium-dome/
  6. https://www.archdaily.com/793706/ad-classics-millennium-dome-rsh-plus-p
  7. https://www.burohappold.com/projects/millennium-dome/
  8. https://londonist.com/london/history/a-brief-history-of-the-o2-millennium-dome
  9. https://www.masterclass.com/articles/millennium-dome
  10. https://www.a1retailmagazine.com/latest-news/the-o2-celebrates-highest-volume-of-visitors-and-sales-ever-recorded/
  11. https://www.iqmagazine.com/2025/09/high-profile-stars-boost-the-o2-to-record-profit/
  12. https://www.theguardian.com/business/article/2024/sep/04/economic-impact-of-uk-live-music-industry-hits-record
  13. https://www.campaignlive.co.uk/article/o2-economic-impact-doubles-original-invesment-report/1065836
  14. https://aegworldwide.com/press-center/press-releases/o2-launches-corporate-social-responsibility-program-good-vibes-all
  15. https://www.forbes.com/sites/csylt/2018/03/18/aeg-books-200-million-profits-on-londons-o2-arena/
  16. https://populous.com/showcases/the-o2-london
  17. https://aegeurope.com/at-the-top-of-its-game-the-o2-celebrates-another-record-breaking-year-at-the-worlds-busiest-live-entertainment-arena/
  18. https://www.london.gov.uk/summer-gigs-will-boost-economy-and-show-why-london-undisputed-capital-music
  19. https://www.pinupmagazine.org/articles/building-cool-britannia-millennium-dome
  20. https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2019/dec/01/millennium-dome-20-years-on-new-labour
  21. https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2015/mar/17/how-we-made-the-millennium-dome-richard-rogers
  22. https://www.nao.org.uk/reports/the-millennium-dome/
  23. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2000/feb/04/millennium.uk
  24. https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200102/cmselect/cmpubacc/531/53102.htm
  25. https://www.nao.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2000/10/9900936.pdf
  26. https://cinmagazine.co.uk/the-uks-most-over-budget-construction-projects/
  27. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/talking_point/1015113.stm
  28. https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2020/mar/12/millennium-dome-experience-disaster-inside-story-new-labour
  29. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/1014442.stm
  30. https://www.nao.org.uk/reports/managing-the-millennium-dome-site/
  31. https://www.theguardian.com/uk/2002/may/30/dome.politics
  32. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/politics/2014020.stm
  33. https://hansard.parliament.uk/lords/2002-05-29/debates/5eb99a90-7c71-48e3-9463-497089a1e70f/MillenniumDome
  34. https://variety.com/2005/music/markets-festivals/anschutz-in-dome-mode-1117923471/
  35. https://www.theguardian.com/uk/2005/may/26/communities.arts
  36. https://www.burohappold.com/projects/o2-arena-and-millennium-dome/
  37. https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Daily/Issues/2005/05/26/Facilities-Venues/O2-Inks-%2411M-Per-Year-Naming-Rights-Deal-For-Millennium-Dome/
  38. https://www.musicweek.com/live/read/o2-and-aeg-agree-new-10-year-naming-rights-deal-for-the-o2/067600
  39. https://www.theo2.co.uk/do-more-at-the-o2/the-o2-arena
  40. https://www.clairglobal.com/case-studies/the-o2-arena-entertainment-district
  41. https://aegeurope.com/the-worlds-busiest-arena-the-o2-celebrates-record-breaking-2023/
  42. https://www.theo2.co.uk/assets/doc/TheO2-Deck_CorpSales_HiRes-923d568efa.pdf
  43. https://aegeurope.com/brands/indigo-at-the-o2/
  44. https://www.limevenueportfolio.com/indigo-at-the-o2/
  45. https://www.visitlondon.com/things-to-do/place/23712229-indigo-at-the-o2
  46. https://www.outletshoppingattheo2.co.uk/home/about-outlet-shopping-at-the-o2
  47. https://www.visitlondon.com/things-to-do/place/47827074-outlet-shopping-at-the-o2
  48. https://www.theo2.co.uk/news/detail/the-o2-ushers-in-three-london-outlet-debuts-following-strong-q1-performance
  49. https://www.theretailbulletin.com/fashion/all-good-things-makes-london-debut-at-outlet-shopping-at-the-o2-08-05-2024/
  50. https://www.retail-week.com/stores/outlet-shopping-at-the-o2-sees-double-digit-sales-growth-backed-by-increased-footfall/7049240.article
  51. https://www.theo2.co.uk/restaurants-and-bars
  52. https://www.outletshoppingattheo2.co.uk/food-drink
  53. https://www.theo2.co.uk/news/detail/the-o2s-entertainment-district-celebrates-full-leasing-completion-with-arrival-of-chopstix
  54. https://www.foodserviceequipmentjournal.com/the-02-marks-record-growth-year-in-2024/
  55. https://www.theo2.co.uk/news/detail/the-o2-celebrates-highest-volume-of-visitors-and-sales-ever-recorded
  56. https://www.upattheo2.co.uk/
  57. https://www.upattheo2.co.uk/products/category/climbs
  58. https://www.visitlondon.com/things-to-do/place/25602127-up-at-the-o2
  59. https://www.iflyworld.co.uk/locations/ifly-london-at-the-o2/
  60. https://www.theo2.co.uk/do-more-at-the-o2/iflyindoorskydiving
  61. https://www.getyourguide.com/london-l57/ifly-indoor-skydiving-at-the-o2-t500638/
  62. https://playactivate.co.uk/activate-at-the-o2
  63. https://www.theo2.co.uk/do-more-at-the-o2
  64. https://www.musicweek.com/live/read/the-o2-breaks-record-with-2-5-million-arena-tickets-sold-in-2023/089032
  65. https://www.standard.co.uk/business/the-o2-ticket-sales-record-elton-john-peter-kay-b1127910.html
  66. https://www.cityam.com/the-o2-peter-kay-and-olivia-rodrigo-help-arena-to-record-profit/
  67. https://www.cityam.com/gig-economy-o2-arena-posts-record-revenue/
  68. https://www.mobilenewscwp.co.uk/News/article/o2-helps-drive-customer-numbers-operator-43pc-10-years
  69. https://www.theo2.co.uk/news/detail/the-o2-reveals-the-positive-impact-of-social-spending-on-driving-the-destinations-out-performance-of-uk-benchmarks
  70. https://www.nao.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2000/11/9900936.pdf
  71. https://www.nao.org.uk/reports/winding-up-the-new-millennium-experience-company-limited/
  72. https://www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/news/article-1563805/Dome-was-doomed-before-it-opened.html
  73. https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200102/cmselect/cmpubacc/516/51603.htm
  74. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/politics/4165767.stm
  75. https://www.taxpayersalliance.com/beyond_the_dome_government_projects_23_billion_over_budget
  76. https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g186338-d1063660-r888322630-The_O2-London_England.html
  77. https://www.theguardian.com/money/2023/mar/28/o2-arena-showed-a-dismal-attitude-to-my-disability
  78. https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Attraction_Review-g186338-d1063660-Reviews-The_O2-London_England.html
  79. https://disabilityhorizons.com/2024/11/failing-disabled-customers-o2s-unfair-ticket-system/
  80. https://www.trustpilot.com/review/theo2.co.uk
  81. https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g186338-d17453254-r833174338-The_O2-London_England.html
  82. https://www.edp24.co.uk/things-to-do/national/24656502.o2-says-hundreds-fans-turned-away-gigs-non-valid-tickets/
  83. https://www.coliseum-online.com/the-o2-arena-pungent-security-structure/
  84. https://www.stadiaworld.com/news/71282/record-year-for-the-o2-in-london
  85. https://www.economicsobservatory.com/studentviews-how-popular-are-live-events-after-the-pandemic
  86. https://www.theo2.co.uk/news/detail/take-that-break-own-record-for-most-shows-performed-at-the-o2
  87. https://winmau.com/blogs/news/o2-record-breaking-attendance
  88. https://www.coliseum-online.com/londons-o2-arena-posts-record-profits/
  89. https://www.theo2.co.uk/about-us/good-vibes-all-round/sustainability/
  90. https://www.theo2.co.uk/news/detail/the-o2-is-the-first-arena-in-england-to-achieve-its-greener-arena-certification
  91. https://www.theo2.co.uk/news/detail/the-o2-continues-to-put-sustainability-at-the-forefront-with-announcement-of-new-arena-measures
  92. https://www.theo2.co.uk/news/detail/the-o2-launches-its-green-rider-in-uk-arena-first
  93. https://www.theo2.co.uk/news/detail/a-world-first-the-o2-removes-over-540-tonnes-of-carbon-during-pilot-event-series
  94. https://sustainabilitymag.com/articles/how-is-o2-the-worlds-busiest-live-venue-becoming-greener
  95. https://aegeurope.com/the-o2-bolsters-its-industry-leading-green-credentials-with-commended-status/
  96. https://energydigital.com/articles/how-is-o2-the-worlds-busiest-live-venue-becoming-greener
  97. https://www.fromthemurkydepths.co.uk/2025/09/14/plans-to-turn-part-of-o2-shopping-centre-into-new-leisure-space/
  98. https://www.coliseum-online.com/rothesay-shield-for-awesome-o2-arena/
  99. https://www.theo2.co.uk/visit-us/getting-to-the-o2/tube
  100. https://tfl.gov.uk/maps/bus?Input=The%2BO2%2BArena%252C%2BPeninsula%2BSquare%252C%2BLondon%252C%2BUK&InputGeolocation=51.50303649902344%252C0.003154299920424819
  101. https://www.theo2.co.uk/visit-us/getting-to-the-o2/bus
  102. https://www.thamesclippers.com/explore-london/the-o2
  103. https://www.theo2.co.uk/visit-us/getting-to-the-o2/river-bus
  104. https://www.thamesclippers.com/whats-on-and-offers/the-o2-post-show-services
  105. https://www.theo2.co.uk/visit-us/getting-to-the-o2/cable-car
  106. https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/london-cable-car/
  107. https://www.theo2.co.uk/travel-info
  108. https://www.theo2.co.uk/visit-us/getting-to-the-o2/parking/
  109. https://metro.co.uk/2016/10/19/when-did-the-millennium-dome-open-and-close-its-diameter-and-what-its-known-as-now-6186450/
  110. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-13370295/People-just-realising-used-inside-O2-Arena-turned-concert-venue-Getting-Willy-Wonka-Glasgow-vibes.html
  111. https://accessaa.co.uk/15-years-of-the-o2/
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.