Key Highlights
- The Eden Project Morecambe is set to be a £100m visitor attraction on the central Morecambe Promenade.
- John Pye, appointed as project director in 2025, discusses recent progress including site investigations and planning submissions.
- The project aims for UK Net Zero status and will feature unique design elements such as a dome 30 meters tall.
- A public garden of 1.6 acres is being developed by Harry Holden Studios with plans to showcase it at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in 2026.
Project Update: Progress and Challenges
The Eden Project Morecambe, a £100m visitor attraction planned for the central Morecambe Promenade, is progressing according to schedule. John Pye, appointed as project director earlier this year, provided an update on recent developments during his interview with David Waddington of Morecambe BID.
Site investigations have been completed, providing valuable information about the ground conditions and potential risks like contamination. “We’ve obviously done the site investigations,” Pye explained, “which people got very excited about, and rightly so, because that’s the first diggers on the ground.” This initial phase is crucial for informing the next stages of planning.
Planning submissions are being developed to ensure a comprehensive understanding of how the visitor experience will be structured. “Design-wise,” Pye said, “we’re layering the details that we’re putting up for the planning submission.” The project aims not only to attract visitors but also to set new standards in sustainability by aiming for UK Net Zero status.
Behind the Scenes: Recruitment and Collaboration
The recruitment of key team members is a significant milestone. John Pye highlighted that several roles have been filled, including Rachel as finance manager, Gemma and Robin from the fundraising perspective, Dewey as senior project manager who started in December, and Stacey as project engagement and communications manager who will start in early 2026.
“I’m really seeing the cavalry coming over the hill to support me in delivering this project,” Pye stated. “Recruitment is one of the parts of that snowball of momentum we’re gaining.” He emphasized the collaborative nature of the project, acknowledging the support from the community, partners, and local universities.
Design and Sustainability: Unique Features
The design plans are ambitious and innovative. The Eden Project Morecambe will feature a landmark dome 30 meters tall—three double-decker buses high—complementing the existing architecture of the Promenade. Pye highlighted that while the dome’s height is significant, it won’t dominate the landscape due to its transparency.
“In the evening with night-time economy,” he continued, “having the dome lit will look amazing, even if the visitor attraction is closed.” This feature aims to enhance Morecambe’s appeal beyond operating hours.
Additionally, a public garden of 1.6 acres is being developed by Harry Holden Studios. This space will be integrated into the main build programme and will debut at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in 2026.
Future Outlook: Excitement for Morecambe
Pye expressed his vision for the future, stating, “We need to keep giving back on this project is moments of excitement because it’s a long time to the end of 2028 when we’re going to deliver this. The Eden Project Morecambe will be a landmark not just locally but nationally and internationally.” He emphasized that showcasing ongoing construction could also generate interest among visitors.
The project aims to establish itself as more than just an attraction; it seeks to contribute positively to the local community through sustainable practices and innovative design features. As Pye concludes, “We want to be a net zero carbon project, which is quite pioneering.”
