Plans to create a new Eden Project North attraction in Morecambe, UK, have been given a major boost after the central government pledged to support the scheme with £50m worth of funding.

The £50m investment is half of the £100m needed to build the coastal-themed, eco-tourism attraction. The development proposals were approved in 2022 by Lancaster City Council.

The funding allows the project to move into its next phase and begin the process of finalising the remaining £50m from private and philanthropic sources identified as part of the bidding process.

Eden Project North is among more than 100 projects across the UK to share a total of £2.1bn from the government's Levelling Up fund.

"Now that the Levelling Up Fund process has concluded, preparation for construction is due to start this year and the aim is for Eden Project Morecambe to be open to visitors by 2026," said Rob Chatwin, Group CEO of the Eden Project.

“This is a historic moment for the town of Morecambe and the surrounding area and for the Eden Project and our partners."

Eden Project North will include three shell-shaped pavilions – designed by Grimshaw Architects – combining indoor and outdoor experiences, connecting people with the internationally-significant natural environment of Morecambe Bay, while also enhancing wellbeing.

As well as exhibits, performance areas, learning and play, the pavilions will house immersive experiences, horticulture, live music, art, food, beverage and retail spaces.

The attraction is set to open in 2024 and it is expected to attract up to one million visitors each year.

The visitor attraction is being delivered by the team behind the first Eden Project in Cornwall, alongside a team of local partners including Lancaster University, Lancaster City Council, Lancashire County Council and the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership.

It is one of the key projects in Eden’s plans to expand around the world.

In May 2021, Eden Project also signed a memorandum of understanding for another site in Dundee, Scotland, while the company is also working on projects around the world, including China.

For a full update on Eden Project schemes, click here to read Attractions Management's recent interview with David Harland & Sir Tim Smit.