Plans for a £100 million Eden Project attraction in Morecambe have been approved by Lancaster City Council, marking a major milestone for the seaside town. The development, known as Eden Project Morecambe, is expected to open in phases from 2027 and aims to transform the overlooked Lancashire coast into a premier staycation destination.
Approval and Timing
The planning permission, granted on July 15, 2026, clears the way for construction to begin. This comes shortly after Morecambe was named the fastest-rising place for British staycationers in a Booking.com survey. The attraction is projected to attract around 585,000 visitors annually, with capacity for up to 740,000 visitors. An outdoor arena will hold up to 6,000 people for events.
Key Attractions: Realms and Metronome
The updated design focuses on three main zones: the Realm of the Sun, the Realm of the Moon, and a space called Metronome. According to a report by the Sun, the Realm of the Sun will feature a tropical landscape with vertical planting, hanging mini gardens, a multi-sensory experience, and a waterfall. The Realm of the Moon will offer a darker setting with a hyper-real rock pool displaying accelerated tidal cycles. Outside, visitors can explore landscaped gardens, an arena, shops, and restaurants.
The Elder Tree Immersive Experience
A £4.5 million immersive experience called The Elder Tree will be a centrepiece. The giant tree structure will stretch almost 20 metres high, taking visitors on a journey from its roots to its hollows. This addition is designed to enhance the attraction's appeal as a unique, educational destination.
Changes from Original Plans
The latest proposals differ from the original 2022 approval. Initially, the design included four domes, but the updated version reduces that to two. The revised plans aim to streamline the visitor experience while maintaining the project's ambitious scale. Lancaster City Council confirmed the approval, stating it will bring significant economic benefits to the region.
Impact on Morecambe
Morecambe, often overlooked by tourists, is set for a major boost. The development is expected to create jobs, attract investment, and raise the town's profile. A council spokesperson said, "This approval is a landmark moment for Morecambe and the wider Lancashire area. Eden Project Morecambe will be a world-class attraction that celebrates the natural environment while driving sustainable tourism." The project aligns with the UK's growing trend of domestic travel, with Morecambe already noted as a rising staycation hotspot.
