HE has been around since the 1960s, but rocker Rod Stewart will be in uncharted territory when he takes to the stage of Glasgow's newest venue next week.

A SSE Hydro spokesman said: "With a seating capacity of 12,000, the venue will augment the SECC's existing facilities, and will play host to around 140 events every year.

"Currently, the SECC is filled to capacity with events and exhibitions.

"Now, the creation of The SSE Hydro means we can expand our capacity and attract the world's biggest stars and global sporting events - and also free up space in the SECC halls for more exhibitions and conference events."

It is hoped the Hydro will attract an audience of one million visitors each year, which will make it the fifth busiest entertainment arena in the world, alongside iconic venues like New York's Madison Square Garden and London's O2 arena.

The spokesman said: "The SSE Hydro has the potential to inject an additional £131 million annually into the local economy. "

It's been long claimed Glasgow was crying out for a venue that was both intimate and expansive.

The city has a series of great venues offering great sound and atmosphere, but none that can cater for huge crowds.

And it's those gigantic crowds that will allow the SECC to attract some of the biggest acts in the world.

Stars already lined up include Michael Buble, The Proclaimers, Fleetwood Mac, and comedian Micky Flanagan.

The venue will also play host to the MOBO Awards.

But it's taken time to develop the incredible new facility. Full planning approval granted for Scotland's National Arena was granted way back in 2006.

Since then, power giant Scottish Hydro was unveiled as naming rights partner for new entertainment arena, committing to investing £1.5m per year over the next 10 years, and Coca-Cola announced as an official sponsor.

In January 2012 the first precast concrete seating units were installed.

However, the creation has not been without its problems.

In June, flames were seen coming from the domed roof of the partially completed building.

Four fire engines and 40 firefighters attended the blaze, caused by welding work taking place in the building's roof space.

But the structure was saved. And while the SECC currently stages 70 event nights per year, with the addition of the Hydro, the venue's management are looking to double this figure.

The spokesman said: "Presently, the SECC spends 75 days a year building up and breaking down the existing hall space to create a concert environment.

"The arrival of The SSE Hydro will not only make much better business sense, but also enhance the visitor experience."

The shareholding in SEC Ltd is just over 90% owned by Glasgow City Council, and 9% by a number of private institutions, such as banks, pension funds and insurance companies.

It's argued local business will benefit from the arrival of The SSE Hydro.

"This economic impact will undoubtedly have a knock-on effect on the local economy," said the spokesman.

"The O2 Arena has seen an extra £400m flood into London and we have high expectations that The SSE Hydro will work just as hard for Glasgow.

"We will also be developing partnerships with Scottish businesses and hope that the VIP and hospitality opportunities will be taken up to allow businesses to give their guests a truly memorable experience at The SSE Hydro."

Scotland has a real passion for live music, with 59% of the population attending concerts each year, more than in any other part of the UK.

The spokesman added: "Last year the SECC was the 13th top ranked entertainment venue in the world.

"This is fantastic news for the SECC and particularly for The SSE Hydro as it recognises us as a global player and positions the arena very favourably for securing even bigger names in the future.

"The creation of The SSE Hydro means that we're able to offer up a custom-built venue for global stars. In the past, promoters have had to turn away some touring artists as there simply hasn't been a suitable venue."

The SSE Hydro will feature four food outlets, nine bars and several lounges.

Rod Stewart is certainly excited by the thought of performing at the new venue.

"I've been looking forward to this as I've watched The SSE Hydro take shape," he said.

"I can't wait to get back to Scotland and perform in front of a live audience at this spectacular venue."

brian.beacom@eveningtimes.co.uk