Peter Kay’s shows have once been postponed at the Co-Op Live Arena, it has just been announced.

Announcing it on his X account, formerly known as Twitter, just minutes ago, the Bolton comedian has apologised to fans as the arena ‘still isn’t ready.

In a statement he said: “To everybody with tickets, my apologies once again but unfortunately the Co-op Live still isn’t ready, and so, as yet, remains untested for a large-scale audience.

“Consequently, they are having to reschedule my two shows yet again (I know I can’t believe it either).

“The first available dates the shows can reschedule to are as follows: Monday April 29 to Thursday May 23, Tuesday April 30 to Friday May 24.

“Tickets will be transferred, or refunds given if the new dates aren’t suitable.

“It’s very disappointing but your safety is important, and I won't compromise that.”

The Co-Op Live have also issued this update: "Since making the difficult decision to postpone the live shows at Co-op Live due to take place this week, we have been undertaking an extensive protocol of testing critical procedures to ensure all areas are ready for fans. 

"To ensure that we can run all shows safely, regretfully we have now had to take the decision to reschedule the planned The Black Keys and Peter Kay shows.

"Both The Black Keys and Peter Kay have graciously agreed to reschedule their shows.

"The Black Keys will now perform on 15 May 2024, and Peter Kay will now perform on 23 and 24 May 2024.

"All tickets remain valid and ticket holders will be contacted by their point of purchase.

"Refunds will be available for those who can no longer attend.

"We deeply appreciate the impact this will have on excited fans, and sincerely apologise for the inconvenience that this change will undoubtedly cause.

"Rescheduling Peter Kay and The Black Keys will give us the extra time we need to continue testing enhanced emergency communications and measures thoroughly.

"This is vital to satisfy the rigorous set of guidelines and protocols that are necessary for a venue of this size to ensure that our fans, artists and staff have the safest experience possible.

"Today’s announcement comes with reassurance that we will welcome fans to Co-op Live from Boogie Wit Da Hoodie on 1 May, and into Olivia Rodrigo on 3 and 4 May 2024.

"As we make this very difficult decision, we thank Manchester City Council, Greater Manchester Police, Greater Manchester Fire Rescue Service, North West Ambulance Service, our staff and wider stakeholders for their continued dedication to Co-op Live."

Tim Leiweke, Chairman and CEO, Oak View Group adds: “It’s always been very important to me that we only open Co-op Live when it is safe and appropriate to do so, and rescheduling The Black Keys and Peter Kay gives the dedicated team the time and space needed to finalise systems and measures.

"I would like to offer my sincerest apologies to every fan that has been impacted by this decision and others this week, and join the full team in thanking them for their continued patience and support as we prepare to open our doors.”

A statement from the Co-op Group: “As the naming rights sponsor for Co-op Live, we are very disappointed in the delayed opening of the venue and fully recognise the disruption this has caused to affected ticket holders, many of whom are Co-op Members.

 “Co-op Live is an incredible venue and is a force for good for Manchester, our region and the UK as a whole.  We look forward to seeing the venue fully open in accordance with the timescales provided by OVG today.”

This news comes just days after the Co-Op Live announced they would be rescheduling Peter Kay's shows due to a power supply issue.

The Bolton comedian was set to perform as the first act at the huge 23,500 seat capacity venue on Tuesday, April 23, and Wednesday, April 24.

But, the arena confirmed that the show had been rescheduled to April 29 and 30.

The arena has now confirmed they will be rescheduled once again.