Grand plans to transform the iconic Tropicana building in Weston-super-Mare have been outlined. The scheme will see the demolition of the existing 1980s internal building and replacing it with a brand-new structure to host indoor events for around 1,000 people.
The plans will also increase the total venue capacity to around 5,000 people and will see repairs to the main 1930s promenade building made.
The scheme, submitted on behalf of North Somerset Council, also includes installing sustainable and renewable energy sources, including heat pumps and solar panels, to improve energy efficiency and help tackle the climate emergency.
This project is part of North Somerset Council’s ambitious placemaking vision for the town, made possible thanks to the authority’s successful bid for £20 million from the UK government. A council spokesperson said they hoped the revamp will elevate Tropicana’s status to become a nationally significant multi-use entertainment venue.
Built in 1937, the former swimming pool on the beach is owned and run directly by the council. The Tropicana was a swimming pool until 2000 when it closed down.
The famous Tropicana swimming pool (pictured 1990). It was a popular attraction before it closed in 2000.
(Image: BUP)
In 2015, following numerous unsuccessful attempts to develop the venue, there was the creation of The Bay Café. Later that year, it hosted Banksy’s Dismaland. Last year, throughout the festive period, the venue hosted the country’s largest outdoor ice rink, Icescape.
Cllr Mike Solomon, North Somerset Council’s executive member responsible for seafronts, and investment in the Tropicana, said: “The submission of this planning application marks a key milestone in the life of the Tropicana. This iconic landmark building has seen several changes over the years since opening in 1937 and the new proposed designs 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 all those who came to have their say on our early proposals at the drop-in events in September. I encourage people to take the time to look through the planning application on our website and I hope that they will be pleased with the latest designs. I’m particularly encouraged to see the reduction in total height within the design for the new building, while retaining the ability to change colour of lighting, which will provide an interesting and useful addition to the seafront skyline, especially at night.
“Reinventing this key destination at the heart of Weston’s seafront 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.”
(Image: KTA Architects)
The planning application has been made by Morgan Sindall Construction, North Somerset Council’s appointed pre-construction contractor for the Tropicana project. It follows more than 250 people attending two drop-in events held by architecture practice RCKa in September to discover more about proposals for the Tropicana. Following these events, Exeter-based KTA Architects, working with Morgan Sindall Construction, have collaborated with RCKa to evolve designs while taking on board people’s views.
A statement with the planning application adds: “The Tropicana will be a permanent flexible event venue capable of year-round events with capacities of up to a maximum 1,000 attendees for the indoor venue and amaximum 5,000 attendees for the indoor and outdoor (combined) venue (+ staff). The proposals will see the demolition of the single storey 1980s building and erection of a new purpose-built two storey (plus parapet roof) event venue with bar, toilets andsupporting facilities.
“The outdoor space at the Tropicana has traditionally been utilised for the hosting of special events, including open air concerts during the summer months. The intention forthe redeveloped Tropicana is to continue holding live music events from time to time with the current proposal being 12 concerts per year. The capacity of the outdoor event space is around 5,000.” Documents will the application though suggest an increase in events as the years go on.
The application adds: The proposed development has been informed by a rigorous and comprehensive understanding of the site’s existing spatial characteristics, local character, and ecological value. The design approach is grounded in healthy building principles and will deliver a high-quality development which will make more efficient use of the existing venue to the benefit of the local community and visitors to the area.
“We therefore urge the Council to adopt the proactive and positive approach to planning and request that planning permission is granted without delay.”
Graham Kingdon, Area Director for Morgan Sindall Construction in the South West, added: “We are delighted to have submitted this planning application in support of North Somerset Council’s efforts to upgrade the Tropicana. Leveraging our Intelligent Solutions approach to construction, the proposed design features a flexible, double-height space within a steel-framed building. This maximises acoustic performance, enhances structural efficiency, and optimises the use of space on the site.
“Additionally, the external walls are designed to be illuminated by light washing, with profiled parapets finished in a brick façade. These elements combine to give the proposed new building a distinctive and unique character for a visually appealing finish. We believe that these latest designs provide a practical and interesting solution to restoring elements of the historic pavilion, while also delivering purpose-built indoor and outdoor entertainment spaces.”
(Image: KTA Architects)
Subject to planning approval, work is due to complete by March 2026. Alongside the physical work, North Somerset Council is also working on the procurement of an experienced operator to run the venue for at least 20 years.
The landmark seaside venue has now partially closed. But while the venue is shut, the Bay Café and the Makers Market concessions at the front of the promenade building will remain open until after the Easter school holidays.
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