Revised plans for the North West’s Eden Project Morecambe – described as a “once in a generation opportunity” for the town have seen the project scaled back
The original concept was for two larger domes and a smaller one on the site, but this has been changed to one large dome and a flatter mussel-shaped building next to it which the planners say is more efficient and uses its height to maximise the visitor experience,
When permission was first granted, the Eden Project was expected to open in 2024. This has since been put back to 2028, with construction due to start next year.
The new plans have also slashed visitor numbers to 580,000 ticketed visitors per year
“This application seeks to amend the approved plans to facilitate the delivery of the Eden Project Morecambe following a progressed design,” said a statement from Eden partners WSP, submitted with the planning variation.
“The application does not fundamentally alter the nature of the original permission.
“A number of other planning conditions will need to be varied as part of the planning application to respond to design updates and updated technical/environmental information.
“Since the original consent was granted at the site there has been a significant progression in the design of Eden Project Morecambe. A number of changes are proposed to the scheme following a strategic recalibration of the project to ensure it remains ambitious, deliverable, aligned with today’s economic landscape, whilst delivering a landmark, once in a generation attraction for Morecambe.
“The site represents a once in a generation opportunity for Morecambe, its local community and the North West region. The project will be an aspirational, flagship development for the North West, providing a platform to educate future generations about the importance of sustainability and climate change. Education and engagement remain key aspects of the proposal, with a variety of programmes being implemented for the local community.”
