The dome was erected in 1910.[1] The building was formally opened by Robert Mason, chair of the local council, on the evening of Saturday, 7 May 1910, as The Spanish City and Whitley Bay Pleasure Gardens.[11] The Union Jack was flown at half mast because King Edward VII had died the previous day.[12] There were shops and cafes inside, a roof garden,[11] and the Empress Theatre, with seating for 1,400 on the floor and 400 on the balcony.[13] The Empress Ballroom was added in 1920, and the Rotunda in 1921.