A former £20 million family attraction will revert back to being exhibition halls after permission was granted by planners.

Bear Grylls Adventure at Birmingham's National Exhibition Centre closed in December 2024 after six years.

Merlin Entertainments – who ran the centre for thrill seekers – blamed "commercial challenges" and the lasting financial effects following the Covid pandemic.

After its closure, 1,000 marine animals including sharks, rays, and tropical fish were re-homed to the nearby National Sea Life Centre in Birmingham, as well as other UK Sea Life sites.

And as the Local Democracy Reporting Service previously reported the site which housed 11 experiences including a 65ft high-rope course and shark dives has been cleared this summer. 

It has emerged that in June Merlin applied to Solihull Council to change the use from a visitor attraction to exhibition halls with minor external alterations.

A planning statement from Lichfields, the agents for the applicant, said: "The application site measures 7,137 sqm and comprises The Pavilion building located within the NEC complex.

"The proposals comprise the following:

• Change of use of The Pavilion building, consisting of the Pavilion 1 and Pavilion 2 halls, back to its original use as an exhibition hall
• Installation of two roller shutters to assist with vehicular access at the south-eastern (Pavilion 1) and north-eastern (Pavilion 2) elevations
• Erection of external staircase and lift to provide access to the retained iFly attraction
• Installation of door to provide access at first floor to the new staircase

"The proposals seek to revert The Pavilion back to its original use."

The council's planning officers reviewed the plans, writing: "Given the location of the building and limited works it is considered that there is no adverse harm to the character of the area.

"The use of the building for exhibition purposes does not involve use of the outside area. 

"There have been no alterations to the parking with vehicle movements in line with the rest of the NEC. 

"Overall planning balance must be in favour for this proposal."

And on August 4 officer Mark Andrews, the authority's head of planning, design and engagement service, granted permission subject to conditions.