Construction of the Eden Project Morecambe will begin in August 2026, project leaders confirmed at a community celebration held at the Winter Gardens on June 24. The event marked a milestone before construction starts, with hundreds of residents, partners, and stakeholders gathering to reflect on progress and look ahead.
First Phase: Free Community Garden by Spring 2027
Groundwork will start on a 1.5-acre, free-to-enter community garden, the first phase of the development, set to open in spring 2027. This follows a period of rapid progress: planning permission was granted in February 2026, VINCI Building was appointed as main contractor in April, and the project gained attention at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in May with the award-winning Bring Me Sunshine Garden, co-designed by garden designer Harry Holding, architect Alex Michaelis, and young adults from Morecambe.
Funding Boost and Key Milestones
In June 2026, a £4.5 million boost was raised through the Omaze Million-Pound House Prize Draw, helping secure the project's central exhibit, The Elder Tree. Andy Jasper, CEO of the Eden Project charity, said: “This was a momentous occasion – ceremoniously putting the giant spade in the ground, with so many hundreds of people to witness this incredibly powerful moment before construction begins which means so much.” Jasper noted that the Eden Project marks its 25th anniversary this year, reflecting on its origins in Cornwall, which has since welcomed 25 million visitors and generated £6.8 billion for the region.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
Once complete, Eden Project Morecambe is expected to attract hundreds of thousands of visitors annually and support more than 1,000 jobs across construction and the wider regional economy. Councillor Stephen Atkinson, Leader of Lancashire County Council, said: “Today’s celebration shows the level of support there is for Eden Project Morecambe and the excitement around what it will bring to the town and a catalyst for regeneration and prosperity. This project will have a lasting impact not only in Morecambe but across Lancashire, creating jobs, attracting visitors and supporting economic growth for years to come.”
Full Opening in Winter 2028
The full Eden Project Morecambe remains on track to open in winter 2028, featuring shell-inspired structures housing immersive environments exploring humanity's relationship with nature. The project is a partnership between the Eden Project, Lancaster City Council, Lancashire County Council, and Lancaster University, with UK Government investment. Gardening expert Carol Klein was announced as the new ambassador for Eden Project Morecambe, stating: “Eden Project Morecambe is going to be transformative for people who live locally and for the North West region. I share the excitement ahead of work starting this summer and I'm absolutely delighted to offer my support.”
