After conducting a feasibility study earlier this year, the Eden Project has announced it will open a second site in Lancashire and is now seeking funds.
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.
They are now seeking funds to begin construction of the site.
Architects’ Journal reports that Grimshaw Architects have begun working on proposals. Grimshaw is also designing other potential Eden centres.
Simon Bellamy, head of Eden Project International, said the project seeks to “re-imagine what the 21st century seaside resort could look like.”
The northern site would be different to the existing site in Cornwall.
“The Eden Project in Cornwall is about the connection with plants, this is about the connection with this wonderful environment here in Morecambe, the bay,” he said.
The project has also received the support of the city council and local university.
Eileen Blamire, the leader of Lancaster City Council, said: “Eden’s big and exciting and plans have the potential to be a real game changer for Morecambe, for Lancashire and for the whole region, transforming the economy, raising prosperity and creating new jobs.”
Andrew Atherton, the deputy vice-chancellor of Lancaster University, said: “We believe it can become a major attraction and resource that will attract visitors and users nationally and internationally … the university is confident that Eden North will bring regeneration and prosperity to Morecambe and its surrounds. This project is a game-changer, and will have a hugely positive impact.”
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.
Images Courtesy Eden Project
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-lancashire-45293702
