**Venue Closure Leaves Couples and Vendors in Turmoil: What's Next for Weston-super-Mare's Winter Gardens?**

A beloved venue for weddings, exhibitions, and other events, the Winter Gardens in Weston-super-Mare has abruptly closed, creating uncertainty for many customers. The closure follows a shift in event operators, where Roybiz Hospitality Ltd. has had its lease terminated in favor of a new operator, Inspirational Events and Investments Ltd., owned by Weston College. Customers who had made reservations for various occasions were informed that their bookings have been cancelled due to upcoming refurbishments.

Among those affected is Bev Milner-Simmonds, the organizer of the Eat Weston Food Festival, who expressed frustration at the sudden cancellation of her festival booking, which was made over 18 months prior. She emphasized the detrimental impact on both the festival and the local food and drink vendors that rely on such events, casting doubt on the future success of her plans.

Weston College has pledged to refund booking deposits and is attempting to assist affected customers in finding alternative venues. They also assured the community that they will strive to honor existing events through May, June, and July. In a bid to support the community during this transitional period, the college aims to provide clarity while outlining plans for improved future management focused on quality and accessibility after the venue’s renovations.

Once renovations are completed, a community event is scheduled for 7 June to celebrate the reopening of the ballroom, with live performances and interactive experiences planned in the adjacent Italian Gardens. The sudden changes have caused a ripple effect of uncertainty within the community, leaving many to wonder about the future of their special events at this iconic location.