The first significant milestone in the Tropicana’s transformation at Weston-super-Mare has been achieved. North Somerset Council has successfully completed the demolition of the 1980s internal event space within the former lido, marking the beginning of a major redevelopment project to create a nationally significant cultural, arts, and entertainment venue on the seafront.
Morgan Sindall Construction, contracted by the council, carried out the demolition with precision and care. Now, the neighbouring 1930s promenade building, a cherished historic structure, has been boarded up to protect it as preparations begin for the next phase of construction.
Councillor Mike Solomon, cabinet member for culture, community services, and safety, expressed enthusiasm about the progress: “The first phase is complete, and we are gearing up for the next exciting chapter. While we cannot yet reveal the preferred operator due to commercial and legal reasons, we look forward to sharing positive news soon.”
READ MORE: Yeovil Town’s Declan Skura: “The Perfect Place to Come and Play”
READ MORE: Local Company Operating A37 Petrol Station to Close After Decline in Trade
Graham Kingdon, area director for Morgan Sindall Construction in the South West, reflected on his team’s role: “It’s an honour to contribute to the Tropicana’s revitalisation. Witnessing these developments first-hand fuels our eagerness to support future stages as the venue evolves into a vibrant national cultural destination.”
Looking ahead, the council will soon begin tendering work for stage two, which will address improvements to the outdoor arena, including drainage upgrades, restoration of the 1930s promenade, and the installation of sustainable and renewable energy solutions. These efforts aim to enhance energy efficiency and align with climate emergency goals.
Until construction resumes, all doors and windows of the Tropicana will remain securely boarded to safeguard the building. The Tropicana forms part of a wider £20 million investment scheme from the UK government to regenerate key sites across Weston-super-Mare, including Birnbeck Pier, Grove Park, Marine Lake, and High Street shops.
Of the total funding, £11.4 million — secured via the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government’s former Levelling Up fund — is allocated exclusively for the Tropicana project. This funding cannot be diverted for other council services, underscoring the importance of this cultural renaissance.
Since ceasing operations as a swimming pool in 2000, the Tropicana has seen various proposals and community calls for restoration. However, bringing back the pool has been deemed commercially unviable. The site gained international attention in 2015 when Banksy’s Dismaland bemusement park was hosted in the disused building.
Public opinion on the upcoming transformation has been mixed; some locals expressed dismay over the proposed design, describing it as “brutalist” or reminiscent of a “1980s warehouse” in council planning comments. Despite this, the redevelopment promises a fresh chapter for this beloved seaside venue, blending historic preservation with modern cultural vibrancy.