The Eden Project is exploring adding a second attraction in the UK, this time in the north at the site of the Dome entertainment centre in Morecambe, Lancashire.
Currently at an early stage, the Eden Project is conducting feasibility studies and exploring the viability of opening a “world-class Eden experience”. The project has already received the backing of Lancaster City Council, Lancaster County Council, Lancaster University, local MPs and government ministers.
The Eden Project of the north site would be set on the former Dome entertainment venue and Bubbles swimming pool area on Morecambe seafront. The Dome was demolished in 2011 while the Bubbles complex closed in 2001.
According to the Westmorland Gazette, it is thought that the inside of the project would display examples of different environments and their flora and fauna. It would also include hands-on displays as part of its educational offering.
David Morris, MP for Morecambe and Lunesdale, told the Gazette that he has been working on the project for months and is currently in talks with the government to secure funding.
He added: “It is an extremely exciting project and will bring a number of opportunities to our area. I have been and visited the Cornwall Eden Project and spoken with their team and spoken to my Cornish MP colleagues about the Eden impact in their area. If Eden gives only a small percentage of those benefits to our area it will be a game changer for Morecambe and its regeneration.”
The original Eden Project in Cornwall cost £141m ($196m) to build and opened in 2001. It was funded through National Lottery and EU grants as well as money from the Southwest Regional Development Agency and £20m ($28m) in commercial loans.
The attraction is now exploring international expansion with three projects in development in China as well as others in New Zealand, Australia, Dubai, North America and Ireland.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-lancashire-43836494
