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The application has been made by Morgan Sindall Construction, North Somerset Council’s appointed pre-construction contractor for the Tropicana project.
More than 250 people attended 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.
The planning application outlines proposals including:
- repairing the main 1930s promenade building
- demolishing the existing 1980s internal building and replacing it with a brand-new structure to host indoor events for around 1,000 people
- increasing the total venue capacity to around 5,000 people
- 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.
Councillor 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.”
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.”
The planning application reference is 24/P/2691/R3. People can find out more about the proposals, including detailed drawings, on the council’s website at www.n-somerset.gov.uk/planning.
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.
To find out more, visit the council’s website at www.n-somerset.gov.uk/tropicana.
