Eden Project North: New-look plans submitted for landmark project

New proposed plans for the Eden Project’s much-talked-about Morecambe site have been revealed.

Originally, the site was set to feature four of the Eden Project’s signature dome structures. However, the new scaled-back proposals will feature two domes — the Realm of the Sun and the Realm of the Moon — with bosses saying their aim is to create a ‘more refined visitor journey’.

While the overall internal space has dropped from 185,000 sq ft to 91,500 sq ft, the external landscaping across the 11-acre site will be expanded, and will include two enlarged outdoor gardens known as ‘Rhythm’ and ‘All Seasons’. The larger Rhythm Gardens will feature an open-air performance and event space, while the All Seasons Garden will include built-in sheltered zones.

The new dual-dome design is built around architect Grimshaw’s concept of a ‘colony of shells’, which will be connected by a central atrium room.

The 18,300 sq ft Realm of the Moon will house the Tidal Theatre experience – a simulated cycle of day and night expected to emulate the rising and falling tides of Morecambe Bay, while Realm of the Sun will feature a hyper-real forest in which live plants sit alongside art installations and other immersive experiences.

“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.”

Where will Eden Project Morecambe be?

The venue, which is now set to include two large bio domes, will be situated on the central promenade of Morecambe, on the former site of the Bubbles leisure complex.

What will Eden Project Morecambe offer?

Eden Project Morecambe will host a varied calendar of ticketed events and installations dedicated to connecting visitors with the natural world, and championing the ‘internationally significant natural environment of Morecambe Bay while also enhancing wellbeing.’

When will Eden Project Morecambe open?

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. In September, LK Group began initial ground investigation works on the site. The project team says discussions with contractors are underway with the view of beginning construction in 2026.

TEP has been appointed to lead on landscape design.

Image Credit: Eden Project