Plans for the £48m development of a new leisure complex on the site of the Tropicana centre in Weston-super-Mare, Somerset, have been put on hold until early 2010 due to the recession.

The Lifestation@Tropicana project, which was approved by North Somerset Council's (NSC) West Area planning committee in October, had been set to get underway later this year as part of a wider scheme to revamp the town's seafront. However, the council has now admitted that the recession looks set to delay the scheme by around six months, although work will continue to address outstanding planning issues and the planned Section 106 agreement with developer Henry Boot in the meantime.

NSC deputy leader Elfan Ap Rees said: "Everyone is aware of what the recession is doing for development plans. We're discussing with Henry Boot over when they can start work, but they remain our preferred development partner." Plans for the complex include a six-lane, 25m indoor swimming pool, a multiplex cinema, a 20-lane bowling alley and a 96-bedroom hotel. Retail units and a restaurant are also among the proposals.

A series of other seafront improvements, including an upgraded promenade, improved sea defences and the Grand Pier redevelopment, are all expected to be completed next year.