- Original plans for the NEC were for it to be built adjacent to the M1 (J 21) near Leicester. But it was turned down by Leicestershire County Council who said at the time that ‘big shows won't move away from London.’
- In 1971 (November) outline planning approval was given for the NEC on a site at Marston Green, Birmingham. The designer appointed was Edward Mills.
- Looking back, it seems quite an achievement that it took only five years for the exhibition centre to be ready. The Queen officially opened the 958,000 sq. ft. of exhibition space on 2 February 1976.
- Build it and they will come. Leicestershire CC has had five decades to rue its decision in which time the NEC has more than doubled in size.
- The NEC is extremely well connected with Birmingham International Airport and Railway Station nearby. But despite these two transport facilities, there is still parking available for 29,000 cars.
- It is estimated that activities on the NEC Campus generate in excess of £2bn for the West Midlands economy.
- In 2025 there are 18 exhibition halls (compared to 7 when the NEC opened). Plus 32 conference suites and a host of additional outdoor spaces.
- Businesses that have setup and located close to the NEC complex are IT and AV hire companies. They provide a vital service to agencies and exhibitors attending shows on the campus.
- Nearby Birmingham Airport when it opened on 8 July 1939 was actually called Elmdon Airport.
- Fun Fact. The NEC hosted the Eurovision Song Contest in 1998. The venue is probably less memorable than the winner, Israeli singer Dana International.
