Plans to bring Live Nation, the world’s largest entertainment company, to Weston-super-Mare have hit a snag, putting the future of the iconic Tropicana venue in doubt. North Somerset Council announced earlier this year that Live Nation was set to take over the former lido, converting it into a 10,000-capacity arena—the largest permanent music venue in the South West.
However, a council meeting scheduled for April 21 to approve the lease ended in disagreement and was adjourned. Council officials are now working to renegotiate terms with Live Nation, aiming to revisit the proposal at the next council meeting on May 12.
The Tropicana holds a special place in many locals’ hearts. Constructed in the 1930s on Weston-super-Mare’s beachfront, it was once a popular outdoor pool before closing in the early 2000s. Though slated for demolition, plans were halted, largely due to intervention by former housing minister Eric Pickles. In 2015, internationally renowned street artist Banksy, a former Tropicana swimmer, transformed the space into his Dismaland bemusement park, sparking renewed interest and a cultural renaissance.
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Since then, the council has operated the Tropicana as a hireable events space, but ongoing maintenance costs and repairs have made it financially unsustainable. Thanks to Levelling Up funding awarded in 2023, there were approved plans to renovate it into a 5,000-capacity venue with an additional 1,000-capacity indoor space. Yet recent shifts in circumstances rendered those plans unfeasible.
Following a procurement process, Live Nation was selected as the preferred operator and proposed expanding the venue’s capacity to 10,000, opting for a fully outdoor arena. However, Live Nation’s desire for the council to retain responsibility for maintenance and repairs has aroused concern among council members.
At the April 21 meeting, council chair Clare Hunt underscored the gravity of the decision, stating, “We have the future of the Tropicana in our hands tonight.” Council leader Mike Bell touted the economic benefits, calling the arena a “game changer” for the town. Despite initial enthusiasm, the cabinet member overseeing the Tropicana, Mike Solomon, abstained from the vote, reflecting reservations that ultimately led to deferring the decision.
Key benefits debated included the potential to elevate Weston-super-Mare’s profile by attracting major acts and large crowds, boosting local businesses such as hospitality and retail, and creating new employment opportunities. Councillor Mark Canniford described the positive impact as “huge,” while even cautious voices acknowledged the financial influx the arena could bring.
Conversely, concerns focused on increased traffic congestion, parking challenges, and possible disturbances to nearby residential areas, especially along Clevedon Road, located just meters from the Tropicana. There were also worries about the effects of new anti-terror legislation potentially imposing heavy security measures and significant seafront diversions during events.
Financial risks dominated much of the debate. Councillors are wary of repeating past mistakes, such as the costly and problematic Carlton Street Car Park deal, which drains council funds annually. The proposed 25-year lease terms, with the council still liable for repairs, add to fears of hidden liabilities. Inflation and regulatory changes could require the council to borrow an additional £6 million to meet project costs, raising further questions about financial prudence.
Councillor Roger Whitfield highlighted the recent council tax increase aimed at addressing social care needs, reminding colleagues that the community’s capacity to shoulder new financial burdens is limited.
The live entertainment proposal represents the boldest yet to secure the Tropicana’s future but may also be the last viable chance. Councillor Canniford warned that failure could consign the venue to a fate similar to other failed council projects while Conservatives like Terry Porter emphasized the challenges of maintaining a stone structure on a sandy beachfront.
With the next council meeting set for May 12, officials have just three weeks to renegotiate terms with Live Nation. Though some remain skeptical about significant changes being achievable in such a short timeframe, the council seems committed to exploring all options.
If the lease receives final approval, Live Nation will manage the Tropicana for 25 years, reopening it in 2028 with a full calendar of major outdoor events from April through October, potentially establishing Weston-super-Mare as a key destination for live music in the region.