WORK is set to begin on a new Eden Project that is being built in an English seaside town.
The boss of the attraction is hopeful that it is on track to open its doors in 2026 after moving closer to securing the funding it needs to begin building.
edenproject.comThe new Eden Project is set to be built on Morecambe Bay[/caption]
edenproject.comEden Project bosses claim they are getting closer to securing the funding they need[/caption]
The project, which is being planned for Morecambe, has been promised £50m by the government, if it is able to raise the same amount of funding.
Now Eden Project chiefs claim they are “getting close” to securing the £50m, with hopes that construction can begin by the end of the year.
Speaking to the BBC, Si Bellamy, head of the Eden Project International, said: “We have been working really hard literally from the very day after the [government’s] announcement to secure the second £50m.
“We’ve got some really positive progress on that.
“We’re looking forward to making some announcement in the weeks and months about that.”
Originally named Eden Project North, developers hope it can replicate the success of the Eden Project in Cornwall, which opened in 2001.
Once completed, the new Eden will be home to a “hyper-real forest” with large installations and immersive theatre.
It will have three huge shell-shaped pavilions that will overlook Morecambe Bay.
There will be a ‘Bay Glade’ with a wellbeing landscape and a Natural Observatory for research and education.
Meanwhile, there will be an exhibition area and meeting point for guests named the Bay Hall.
The attraction will also have children’s play areas, restaurants, cafes and a gift shop.
The space will host events throughout the year, similar to the ones held at the Cornwall Eden Project.
Famous musicians such as Elton John, Lionel Richie and Kylie Minogue have all turned up and performed.
The Eden Project website states: “Eden Project Morecambe will be a destination that combines indoor and outdoor experiences, connecting people with the internationally-significant natural environment of Morecambe Bay while also enhancing wellbeing.
“Eden Project Morecambe will combine exhibits, performance, learning, play, immersive experiences, world-class horticulture, live music, art, food, beverage and retail spaces, all integrated as essential parts of the overall experience.”
Bosses hope that once the site opens, it could attract as many as 750,000 guests every year.
Ticket prices are yet to be revealed, but non-ticket holders will be able to access some of the outdoor area.
Meanwhile, families can get free entry for kids to the Eden Project in Cornwall during half-term.
And another Eden Project is also being planned in Dundee.
edenproject.comIt is hoped that the new project will be able to open in 2026[/caption]