BAM Construction has been chosen by Leeds City Council (LCC) to build a new £80m entertainment venue in the centre of Leeds, West Yorkshire.

Bovis Lend Lease has been named as the reserve contractor by the local authority for the Leeds Arena scheme, which will see a 13,500-capacity facility developed on a site in Claypit Lane. 'Super theatre' plans for the venue will ensure the furthest seat will be no more than 68m (223ft) from the centre of the stage - compared with 90-95m (295-312ft) at most conventional arenas.

SMG Europe, which has already been appointed by LCC to operate Leeds Arena, is now expected to secure a naming rights agreement that will see an organisation sponsor the venue. LCC leader Andrew Carter said: "BAM has significant experience in building world leading stadiums and throughout the tender process they have demonstrated huge commitment and enthusiasm for the project."

BAM Construction, part of Royal BAM Group, has previously worked on the development of a new dual-use pavilion for Yorkshire County Cricket Club at the Headingley Stadium and the Berlin O2 Arena in Germany.