New imagery showcasing the developed design of the long-awaited Eden Project in Morecambe has been revealed.
Eden Project Morecambe will be on the central promenade of the town on the former site of the Bubbles leisure complex close to the Grade II* listed Winter Gardens and Midland Hotel.
Two new CGI images from architects Grimshaw offer a fresh look at the unique shell-inspired structure of Eden Project Morecambe which developers say will be surrounded by inter-connecting gardens.
Developers said the images showed how the design of the project has evolved to maximise it as a world-class destination and key cultural venue, while allowing the exhibits to develop in the future.
Several realms – areas designed to highlight aspects of life – have been developed with two details of two more still to be finalised.
Andy Jasper, chief executive officer of the Eden Project, said: “It is an exciting day 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.
“The design showcases the experience we have developed, its magnitude to deliver on budget and to the timescales that we know everyone is keen for us to meet.
“This design does this without compromising on ambition or vision, and we cannot wait to reveal more about the visitor experience in due course.
“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.”
Jolyon Brewis, a partner at Grimshaw, the architects behind the designs, said: “Eden Project Morecambe is a unique and ambitious project that, with a design inspired by the spectacular beauty of the bay, will enhance the local context environmentally, socially and economically.
“Influenced by the natural rhythms of Morecambe, two extraordinary structures – the Realm of the Sun and the Realm of the Moon – will define this destination.
“These structures, sitting within the sculpted external spaces and gardens, will support Eden Project’s mission to reconnect people with nature for positive change and bring to life this immersive and memorable experience in Morecambe.”
Caroline Jackson, the leader of Lancaster City Council, said: “These eyecatching images make the Eden Project Morecambe a reality.
“The new structures reflect our unique and beautiful bay in their design and we can feel the momentum growing now as the project team comes together. It is taking time to get the project right but it will be worth the wait.”
Councillor Brian Moore, cabinet member for economic development and growth at Lancashire County Council, said: “It’s good to see the latest designs now that the project has evolved, which is quite common as major projects develop.
“As the new cabinet member, these are very interesting and exciting plans. We’re clear that this would bring benefits not just for Morecambe with jobs and local growth, but to other parts of Lancashire as well through visitors to the area and opportunities for supply chains.”
Professor Andy Schofield, Lancaster University Vice-Chancellor, said: “As a founding partner, Lancaster University is committed to the success of Eden Project Morecambe and to the economic and social regeneration of our region.
“Complex and novel projects evolve in size and shape over time, and we wholeheartedly endorse the current proposed design which makes the most of the resources available to deliver the vision and allows scope for potential future enhancement.
“We’re very excited to see visible elements of the project coming to life in the next few months and commend Eden for their continued commitment and focus on delivering the vision for the people of Morecambe and its visitors.”
The project is being delivered in partnership with Lancaster City Council, Lancashire County Council and Lancaster University and is due to open in late 2028.
