Eden Project progressing plans to open new site in Morecambe

Cornwall’s Eden Project is to press ahead with plans to open a version of the attraction in Morecambe, following a feasibility study.

It revealed earlier this year that it was in talks to create a new visitor attraction in the Lancashire town.

Now it has confirmed that it is seeking funding and support to move to the next stage of its plans.

Simon Bellamy, head of Eden Project International, said the vision is to “re-imagine what the 21st century seaside resort could look like”.

The Eden Project opened near St Austell in Cornwall in 2001.

It said it wants to create a “world-class Eden experience” at Morecambe Bay.

The company is working with the Lancashire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), Lancashire University, Lancashire County Council and Lancaster City Council on its proposals.

It is believed that a location on the former Bubbles swimming pool site is the preferred option.

David Morris, MP for Morecambe and Lunesdale, said he believes the development would be “the makings of Morecambe”.

David Harland, chief executive of Eden Project International Limited, said the organisations were “in the early stages of looking at the viability and feasibility” of the project.

Mr Morris said he is currently seeking government funding for the project.

“It would regenerate the whole of the Morecambe area,” he told BBC Radio Lancashire.

“We’re trying to get tourism attractions that would aid educational purposes as well.”

The Eden Project opened in near St Austell in Cornwall in 2001 in a former china clay pit.

The company is currently working on new sites in locations including China, the USA and Australia.