Famous abandoned seaside attraction to be turned into a 10,000-capacity arena | UK | News
Weston-super-Mare’s Tropicana is scheduled to open in 2028 (Image: North Somerset Council)
An abandoned seaside attraction is planned to be transformed into a massive arena with a capacity of 10,000. The plan will transform Weston-super-Mare’s Tropicana, once Banksy’s Dismaland, into the biggest music venue for miles.
Live Nation, the world’s largest live entertainment company, will operate the venue under a 25-year lease. It is expected to reopen in 2028 to offer “world-class live entertainment programming” with Live Nation. North Somerset Council voted to approve the contract this week (12 May).
The council was originally due to vote on the plans three weeks ago, but the decision was postponed so the contract could be renegotiated after councilors expressed concerns it would cost them more.
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Tropicana on October 30 (Image: John Wimperis)
Council leader Mike Bell (Weston-super-Mare Central, Liberal Democrat) said: “This decision is great news and a significant step forward in the rebirth of the Tropicana. We know there is more work to be done, but I am pleased councilors agreed tonight to move forward with our preferred operator, Live Nation, on leasing the Tropicana from the council for the next 25 years.”
“Live Nation aims to transform Tropicana into a year-round event venue that will ultimately increase visitor numbers to our region, create higher accommodation occupancy rates, boost our retail business, grow local supply chains and create more skills and employment opportunities for our communities.”
The plan still allows Live Nation or North Somerset Council to withdraw and ensures the council does not commit to any spending increases. Live Nation’s plans will also need planning permission and licensing approval.
Shows at the Tropicana are expected to be of a similar caliber to Live Nation’s East Coast venues, which have hosted artists such as Tom Jones, Queens of the Stone Age, Rudimental, McFly and Madness. Live Nation also plans to support community and charity events.
Live Nation’s Eddie Kemsley said: “We’re thrilled to be working with North Somerset Council to bring the Tropicana back to life with a program of music and live events from 2028.”
“We look forward to working with local businesses, stakeholders and members of the public and community over the coming months to ensure a successful and happy start to the venue’s next chapter.”
When the deal was first brought before councilors in April, the council said inflation and new counter-terrorism legislation were leading to rising costs and that a potential £6m borrowing would be required to deliver the plan.
But updated council documents, published just hours before yesterday’s meeting, said council officers would look for further opportunities to cut costs, value engineer or seek alternative funding.
Councilors will be consulted again before agreeing on the final construction contract or increased expenditure. The plan now includes a “restoration tax” on tickets to fund maintenance of the Tropicana.
