Tonight, councillors in Weston-super-Mare will decide on an updated proposal to convert the town’s renowned Tropicana site into a major live music arena with a capacity of 10,000 attendees.
Live Nation, the world’s largest live entertainment company, emerged as the preferred operator after winning a competitive procurement process. The famous former lido—previously spotlighted as the setting for Banksy’s Dismaland exhibition—is set to be revitalized as a premier outdoor events venue.
Three weeks ago, a similar proposal was put forward but stalled amid councillors’ concerns over potential hidden costs and the need for greater financial safeguards. The decision was deferred to allow for renegotiation.
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The revised plan, scheduled for a vote at the North Somerset Council’s full meeting tonight, introduces critical new measures aimed at protecting the council’s financial interests. Among the updates is a “restoration levy”—an additional charge on ticket prices to fund the ongoing upkeep of the Tropicana over the 25-year lease. Expected to raise approximately £100,000 annually, this levy replaces the previous arrangement involving profit-sharing with the council.
Moreover, councillors will maintain oversight, with another vote required before any final construction contract or increased expenditure is approved. The council has explicitly stated that no permission for additional borrowing or capital program expansion is granted at this stage.
Initial cost projections were challenged by inflation and newly introduced anti-terrorism legislation, prompting concerns that the council might need to borrow £6 million to complete the development. To address this, officers are tasked with exploring cost-saving measures, value engineering, alternative funding sources, grant opportunities, and contributions from the operator.
Live Nation’s vision includes doubling the venue’s original proposed capacity, fully embracing an outdoor format, and assigning maintenance responsibilities to the council. With its significant scale, the Tropicana would become the largest music venue in the region upon completion.
The first council debate on awarding the contract, held on April 21, ended inconclusively after a rare display of dissent, with the responsible cabinet member expressing reservations and choosing to abstain. This prompted the postponement of the vote and further negotiations.
The reconvened meeting is set for 6pm tonight in Weston-super-Mare Town Hall, where councillors will also consider whether North Somerset Council should join the West of England Combined Authority.