PLANS to save the Tropicana from demolition have failed after Government approved North Somerset Council’s application to bulldoze the derelict site.

The Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government Eric Pickles has given the green light to the authority’s plans to tear down the iconic landmark.

The decision follows years of wrangles over the former open-air pool’s future, with several attempts by developers and local groups ultimately failing to save the pool from the wrecking ball.

The Secretary of State also decided the building has not been subject to deliberate neglect or disrepair and a lifeline proposed by Trop (WSM) Ltd is ‘neither viable nor deliverable’.

He also said the demolition of the building and its return to beach and sea wall would have ‘a positive impact on the Conservation Area and the tourist sector’ in Weston.

Cllr Tony Lake, North Somerset Council’s executive member for property, said: “We welcome the Secretary of State’s decision.

“Over the past 12 years there have been three schemes to develop this seafront site, all of which involved knocking down the current structure.

“For one reason or another, these schemes did not go ahead.

“We welcome the fact that the Secretary of State has recognised the efforts made by the council in attempting to redevelop the Tropicana site and the process for site demolition will now begin.”

*Have you got photographs of yourself or family or friends enjoying the Tropicana in its heyday? Please send them to newsdesk@westonmercury.co.uk