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“Full steam ahead” to reinvent the Tropicana as planning approved

4:20pm - 14 May 2025
A computer generated image of the existing Tropicana building with the proposed new building shown

Plans to reinvent the Tropicana in Weston-super-Mare were given the green light today (Wednesday 14 May) by North Somerset Council’s Planning and Regulatory Committee.

Councillors to approve the planning application submitted in January by Morgan Sindall Construction, North Somerset Council’s appointed pre-construction contractor for the project.

Planning consent was granted to:

  • repair the main 1930s promenade building
  • demolish the existing 1980s internal building and replace it with a brand-new structure to host indoor events for around 1,000 people
  • increase the total venue capacity to 5,000 people plus event staff
  • install sustainable and renewable energy sources, including heat pumps and solar panels, to improve energy efficiency and help tackle the climate emergency.

Councillor Mike Solomon, North Somerset Council's cabinet member responsible for seafronts, and investment in the Tropicana, said: “With the planning application now approved, it’s full steam ahead to reinvent the Tropicana, a key destination at the heart of Weston’s seafront.

“This iconic landmark building has seen several changes over the years since opening in 1937 and the designs approved today support our vision to create a fit for purpose entertainment venue. They meet industry standards to help us attract the best operator for the next twenty plus years and take the venue into the future.

“Thanks to everyone who came to have their say on early proposals at the drop-in events last year, and those who took the time to comment on the planning application. People’s comments and ideas have helped us to shape and improve the designs that were approved today.

“This project will create new jobs, support local businesses and deliver a year-round experience-led economy for the future. We want to attract higher profile acts, culture and entertainment events to elevate Weston’s place within the regional, national and international scene.”

The Tropicana, which was previously run in-house by the council, has temporarily closed to allow construction and refurbishment to take place.

The council is working on the procurement of an experienced operator to run the venue for at least 20 years, with the successful operator due to be announced once appointed this summer.

Construction work is due to start this summer (2025) and complete by summer next year (2026). The appointed venue operator would complete their fit out and reopen the Tropicana shortly afterwards.

Part of North Somerset Council’s ambitious placemaking vision for Weston, plans for the Tropicana aim to enhance existing facilities, boost capacity and restore the venue’s status as a nationally renowned, multi-use entertainment space. This has been made possible thanks to funding from the UK government. This funding is provided specifically for this project and can’t be used by the council for any other purpose such as adult social care, children’s services or highway maintenance.

To find out more, visit the council’s website at www.n-somerset.gov.uk/tropicana.