The rumours are true: Live Nation will deliver a purpose-built, 5000-capacity live music venue at Arden Central, a major urban renewal project in North Melbourne. Once open, the venue is expected to host over 100 events throughout the year, meaning our city will gain a massive new stage for Australian artists and international touring acts. "This venue is being designed around the live experience, creating an intimate connection between artists and fans while delivering everything expected of a best-in-class touring venue. A range of premium experiences, outstanding artist amenities and efficient production access have been embedded into the venue's design," says Guy Ngata, Senior Vice President, Venue Development at Live Nation. Set virtually next door to Arden Station and about 1.5 kilometres from the CBD, you'll be able to catch public transport to and from the gig. What's more, the venue will be a key landmark in the $7 billion cultural and parkland neighbourhood under development, with Arden Central planned as a new inner-city entertainment destination. Blueprint Studio, Live Nation's in-house design and development group, has designed the venue in collaboration with Populous, a global firm specialising in stadiums and arenas, including the MCG's 2005 redevelopment and Fortress Melbourne, a sprawling esports venue. Best of all, the 5000-person capacity strikes the balance between huge stadia and larger live music venues. "Growing up as a band in Melbourne, you learn pretty quickly how important venues are. Bands need rooms they can grow into, and 5000 capacity is a great size. It feels like a big occasion, but from the stage you can still connect with the people in the room," says Mark Wilson, member of Melbourne-born band JET. With more details to come, Live Nation's venue isn't the only headline-grabbing landmark coming to Arden Central, with stage one pencilled in for completion in 2033. Melbourne Victory Football Club, North Melbourne Football Club and the University of Melbourne will bring entertainment, sport, education and community activity to the hub, while the wider precinct will provide more than 5400 homes. Live Nation's Arden Central live music venue is planned for Stage One of the wider precinct development, currently scheduled for completion in 2033. Like what you see? Subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter to get stories just like these straight to your inbox. Renders: Supplied.