New visuals of the highly anticipated ecotourism destination, Eden Project Morecambe, have been unveiled. The shell-inspired design, a sister site to the original Eden Project in Cornwall, is set to open in late 2028 and is expected to draw thousands of visitors.
“We’ve been working really hard behind the scenes developing incredible plans for this shell-inspired structure, designed by award-winning architects Grimshaw, which will house extraordinary living landscapes and immersive worlds inhabited by world-class art, performance, storytelling, interactive installations and play,” said Eden Project in a statement.
“With Morecambe Bay’s tidal range one of the largest in the world, the natural rhythms of nature will underpin all aspects of this exciting project.
“Inspired by the natural geometries, beauty and efficiency of seashells, the architecture of Eden Project Morecambe will be instantly recognisable and will be an emblem of sustainability with a deep connection to place, respecting and complementing the highly valued heritage landmarks nearby.”
“A destination from the community, for the community”
Inside the structure, there will be two Realms – the Sun and the Moon. The Realm of the Sun will feature a bright, tropical landscape from the near future, where humans have learned to heal and reconnect with the natural world. Visitors will be invited to engage and reflect through interactive exhibits, living structures, storytelling, and workshops. The Elder Tree, a stunning 20-meter sculpture, will define the space.
Meanwhile, the Realm of the Moon will showcase the extraordinary rhythms of Morecambe Bay and its native species. It will feature a hyper-real rock pool where accelerated cycles of tides, days, and seasons create a dynamic immersive world filled with storytelling and discovery.
More information regarding two additional distinctive Realms – a Four Seasons Garden and a Public Realm – will be shared soon.
Andy Jasper, chief executive officer of the Eden Project, says: “Today is an exciting day as we share the developed designs of Eden Project Morecambe for the very first time.
“This project is profoundly important to us all. It is not just a project for Morecambe, but for the whole of the UK, and we are delighted to share how the design process is progressing… Eden Project Morecambe is going to ultimately become the destination from the community, for the community and is developed in tandem with our brilliant partners in Morecambe and throughout the North West and will be something for us all to be proud of.”
The project is being delivered in partnership with Lancaster City Council, Lancaster County Council and Lancaster University.
Earlier this year, Eden Project Morecambe appointed its first official employee, John Pye. Taking on the role of project director, he is based in the town of Morecambe and will drive the project to completion.
Pye will work with a multi-disciplinary team overseeing construction, horticulture and the visitor experience, also considering Eden’s vision of public benefit and sustainability.
