The future of transforming Weston-super-Mare’s iconic Tropicana into a 10,000-capacity arena remains uncertain after North Somerset Council decided to postpone a crucial vote. Originally scheduled for April 21, the vote on awarding the contract to Live Nation—the world’s largest live entertainment company—was delayed until May 12, as councillors seek better contract terms.
Live Nation emerged as the preferred operator following a competitive tender but proposed significant changes to the project. These alterations include doubling the intended venue capacity, eliminating the planned new indoor building to create a fully outdoor space, and shifting maintenance responsibilities to the council. Additionally, inflation and new anti-terrorism regulations mean the council may need to borrow an estimated £6 million to finance the project.
Councillor Mike Solomon, cabinet member for culture, voiced reservations about the evolving plans and the financial burden the council might incur. “We have to be very mindful of what we are committing to, especially regarding borrowing,” he warned. Meanwhile, Council Leader Mike Bell acknowledged that the original plan was no longer viable under current circumstances but emphasized the project’s potential benefits. “This could breathe new life into the Tropicana, protect a cherished heritage site, and deliver an economic boost that could transform Weston-super-Mare,” Bell stated.
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Green Party councillor Bridget Petty expressed skepticism, noting the cabinet member’s uncertainty mirrored wider council doubts, making it difficult for the chamber to reach consensus. Concerns were raised over the possibility of the Tropicana becoming a financial liability akin to the city’s Carlton Street Car Park and about committing to increased debt amid recent council tax hikes of 8.99%.
The debate stretched over an hour, revealing divisions among councillors that cut across party lines. In the end, Bell proposed deferring the decision to the next council meeting to allow time for contract renegotiation.
Conservative councillor Terry Porter passionately supported Live Nation’s plans, warning the council that failure to proceed might squander the “last chance for the Tropicana.” He cautioned, however, that expecting a finalized contract in three weeks is overly optimistic.
The Tropicana, a 1930s outdoor lido, closed as a swimming pool in 2000 and narrowly escaped demolition thanks to intervention by then-minister Eric Pickles. It later gained international attention as the setting for Banksy’s Dismaland art installation in 2015. Since then, the council has operated it as an event space, which has not been financially self-sustaining.
The council’s original plan, approved in 2025, envisioned a new indoor venue with 5,000 capacity. Live Nation’s preferred vision shifts towards a larger, fully outdoor venue for up to 10,000 attendees, necessitating new planning approval. The company would manage the Tropicana for 25 years post-refurbishment, hosting major outdoor events between April and October, with a hoped-for reopening in 2028.