In its 40 years the SEC has been central to the transformation of its home city and an area once renowned for shipbuilding and industry, adding two new landmarks to the Glasgow skyline in the form of the Armadillo and OVO Hydro.
Now, as part of the venue’s 40th birthday celebrations, a new video tells the SEC’s story, from inception and early years through to present day and shows the extent to which the surrounding area of the Clydeside has been transformed.
Dom McKay, Chief Executive of the Scottish Event Campus, said: "Reaching 40 years is an incredible milestone for the SEC, and it’s a moment to reflect on everything that has shaped this campus and allowed it to sit at the beating heart of not only Glasgow’s but Scotland’s cultural life.”
The foundations of the campus, which today extends from the edges of Glasgow’s city centre to the city’s west end, were laid following major works which saw the old yards cleared and the docks filled.
The campus ‘quickly found its rhythm’ and, beyond bringing major conferences and events to Scotland for the first time, world-renowned artists, including Luciano Pavarotti, were soon arriving in the city to make their Scottish bows.
5. SEC at 40
Dom continued: "Over the decades, we’ve had the privilege of hosting world-famous artists from Bono to Beyonce, international conferences like COP26, and spectacular events like the MTV Europe Music Awards and Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games, that have left a lasting mark on both the city and the people who visit. | SEC at 40
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The OVO Hydro and SEC Armadillo have become not just venues, but recognised parts of the Glasgow skyline, and the SEC has played a central role in driving economic growth and revitalising the surrounding area. The campus has grown and evolved alongside the city itself. | Getty Images for Glasgow 2014
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7. SEC at 40
"This 40th anniversary is also a celebration of the extraordinary stories that make the SEC unique, from unforgettable personal memories to more poignant moments, such as when we became NHS Louisa Jordan during the pandemic. We are asking the public to share those memories throughout our birthday year in the SEC40&Me campaign. | SNS Group
8. SEC at 40
“The video we’ve released captures just some of the highlights, but more importantly, it reminds us of the community, creativity, and spirit that have always been at the heart of the SEC. We look forward to the next 40 years of creating incredible, here in Glasgow." | SEC at 40