An abandoned seaside attraction is set to be turned into a major 10,000-capacity arena. The plan will transform Weston-super-Mare’s Tropicana, once used as Banksy’s Dismaland, into the biggest music venue for miles around.

Live Nation, the world’s largest live entertainment company, will run the venue on a 25-year lease. It is expected to reopen in 2028 with Live Nation to put on a “programme of world-class live entertainment.” North Somerset Council voted to approve the contract this week (May 12).

The council had originally been due to vote on the plans three weeks ago, but after councillors raised concerns that it could lumber them with more costs down the road, the decision was adjourned so the contract could be renegotiated.

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’m pleased councillors agreed tonight to progress with our preferred operator, Live Nation, leasing the Tropicana from the council for the next 25 years.

“Live Nation aims to make the Tropicana an all-year event venue which will ultimately increase footfall to our region, create higher accommodation occupancy rates, give our retail businesses an uplift, grow local supply chains and create more skills and employment opportunities for our communities.”

The plan still allows either Live Nation or North Somerset Council to walk away, and does not commit the council to any increased spending. Live Nation’s plans will also need to receive planning permission and licensing approval.

Acts to perform at the Tropicana are expected to be of a similar calibre to Live Nation’s East Coast venues, which have hosted artists like 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 are very excited to be working with North Somerset Council to bring the Tropicana back to life with a programme of music and live events from 2028

“We look forward to working with local businesses, stakeholders and members of the public and community in the coming months to ensure a successful and happy start to this next chapter for the venue.”

When the deal first came before councillors in April, the council said that inflation and new anti-terror legislation had led to increased costs, potentially requiring it to borrow £6m to deliver the scheme.

But updated council papers — released just hours before yesterday's meeting — said that council officers would be looking for more opportunities to mitigate costs, value-engineer, or pursue alternative funding.

Councillors will be consulted again before the final construction contract or increased spending is agreed to. The plan now includes a “restoration levy” applied to tickets to fund the Tropicana's upkeep.