Sheffield O2 Academy to reopen after RAAC roof replacement
The venue, which closed temporarily in September 2023, has undergone substantial works by operator Academy Music Group, including the replacement of the problematic roof deck, and will reopen in February next year.
Sheffield City Council granted planning permission in February for the roof deck to be replaced.
RAAC is a lightweight form of concrete widely used in buildings during the 1950s and 1960s. The Health and Safety Executive has warned that the material can be beyond its intended lifespan and may fail with little or no warning.
AMG said the remedial programme has also included the installation of a new air-conditioning system and extensive works to service areas in both the main room and O2 Academy2.
The venue has also partnered with specialist production company Adlib to install a new L-Acoustics K3 loudspeaker system.
AMG said the new system would provide touring artists and crews with a consistent audio setup, with the technology designed to deliver natural, dynamic and precise sound reproduction.
The O2 Academy was acquired by AMG and reopened in 2008 following an extensive refurbishment and an opening week featuring artists and figures from across South Yorkshire.
Liam Boylan, chief executive of Academy Music Group, said: “AMG is the backbone of the UK touring circuit, and O2 Academy Sheffield is an important venue in the region and one that promoters and artists will have missed being able to include on their routing whilst it has been closed.
“Our venue estate has not been complete without this landmark building and it’s wonderful to be able to announce its return to the group.”
John Hughes, managing director of Adlib, said: “We’re delighted to be working with the AMG team on this landmark venue in Sheffield. Having welcomed legendary artists to the stage, it has a brilliant musical heritage that we’re helping to carry forward.
“By integrating new audio and lighting systems in collaboration with our partners L-Acoustics and DiGiCo, we’re ensuring the venue is ready for the demands of today’s productions, while giving artists, engineers and audiences a great experience.”
