Eden Project North
Carmel Smickersgill, Tours & Activities Editor
Seaside towns such as Morecambe have had to adapt and evolve with changing tastes in tourism, often to the detriment of the town. However, in 2024 (date still very much provisional) the picturesque bay will be going through its most drastic and exciting change yet, with the eagerly anticipated arrival of the Eden Project North. Positioned on the cusp of the bay and looking back on the Lake District, this temple to the natural world will bring visitors an educational, community focused and ecological experience like no other.
The Eden Project started in Cornwall 20 years ago when a group transformed a china clay pit into what they describe as a living theatre for plants and people. The aim was to bring the human and natural worlds closer together, offering an alternative view of our dependence on plants. They’ve now branched out throughout the world creating similar structures and places where people can learn about the benefits of working together for the good of all living things.
An emphasis on community, and the power people have when working together
As a now global movement the Eden Project has created sites in China, Australia and Costa Rica as well as other sites around the UK. Wherever they’re based, the social enterprise help people engage with nature through workshops and education around sustainable living and models for coexisting with plants. They also regularly bring art and culture into natural spaces to inspire a deeper connection to the surrounding flora. At the heart of their work, is an emphasis on community, and the power people have when working together.
It is incredibly exciting to see a project like this in the works for the North of England. Especially as its presence in Morecambe will transform the town into a tourist destination fit for the 21st Century and resistant to fickle tourism trends. While the construction of the site is underway the Eden Project are holding regular virtual and in-person events to get feedback on their ideas from the community. Check out the Eden Project North website for further details.
