PLANS to ‘reinvent’ the famous Tropicana in Weston-super-Mare have been approved.

The scheme, submitted in January by Morgan Sindall Construction on behalf of North Somerset Council, was given the green light today (May 14) by the authority’s Planning and Regulatory Committee.

Planning consent for the Tropicana in Weston was granted to:

• repair the main 1930s promenade building
• demolish the existing 1980s internal building and replace it with a brand-new structure to host indoor events for around 1,000 people
• increase the total venue capacity to 5,000 people plus event staff
• install sustainable and renewable energy sources, including heat pumps and solar panels, to improve energy efficiency and help tackle the climate emergency.

Councillor Mike Solomon, North Somerset Council’s cabinet member responsible for seafronts, and investment in the Tropicana, said: “With the planning application now approved, it’s full steam ahead to reinvent the Tropicana, a key destination at the heart of Weston’s seafront.

The Tropicana, on the Promenade in Weston, will get a complete makeover under the plans. Picture: Google

“This iconic landmark building has seen several changes over the years since opening in 1937 and the designs approved today 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 everyone who came to have their say on early proposals at the drop-in events last year, and those who took the time to comment on the planning application. People’s comments and ideas have helped us to shape and improve the designs that were approved today.

“This project 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.”

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The Tropicana, which was previously run in-house by the council, has temporarily closed to allow construction and refurbishment to take place.

Work is now underway to secure an experienced operator to run the venue for at least the next 20 years.

Meanwhile, construction work is due to start this summer, with completion in summer 2026, with the appointed venue operator completing their fit out and re-opening the Tropicana shortly afterwards.