Revamped Eden Project Morecambe to be discussed

New plans for the £100m Eden Project Morecambe including two shell-shaped domes, gardens inspired by the coast, "causeway" and sea walls are set to go before councillors.

Eden Project Morecambe Ltd sent an updated plan to Lancaster City Council, reflecting two years of discussions and changing factors including a backdrop of rising costs and feedback from residents and councillors.

The changes will ensure the attraction on the former Bubbles pool and Super Dome site, is delivered within budget and timescales and will have less impact on nearby landmarks including the Midland Hotel and Winter Gardens venue.

Planning officers are recommending councillors approve the application.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service said that permission was given in 2022 for a four-dome design but Eden now wants to vary some aspects.

The new plan has two domes, called the Realm of the Sun and Realm of the Moon, linked by a metronome entrance.

A report said The Realm of the Sun would be a "unique" building adapting to hot and cool seasons.

Rhythm is a key theme for the overall Eden attraction including tidal, sun and moon cycles. Coastal plants, animals and human life will all be explored too.

The plans include designs for rhythm and seasonal gardens and examples of coastal plants, landscaping and outdoor lighting.

The changes will also provide greater areas of outside landscaped areas, both free and for paying customers.

Demolition of some old structures is proposed.

The report said: "The proposal continues to be a major new mixed-use attraction in Morecambe.

"It will combine a range of indoor and outdoor experiences, all based on connecting people with Morecambe Bay.

"The applicant has also engaged with other organisations particularly in relation to ecology, cultural heritage and transport."

The first planned phase will be a 1.5 acre Bring Me Sunshine community space, inspired by the landscape and seaside culture, with a reference to comedian Eric Morecambe, located between the war memorial and the Midland Hotel.

Later phases will follow with full opening expected in 2028.

Eight large concerts or events are planned each summer, which is identical to the original approved plan.

These could each attract around 6,000 people.

This is less than events such as the Morecambe Vintage Festival, which can attract around 55,000, the report adds.

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