For several years, plans have been under way to build Eden Project North on Morecambe’s somewhat doleful seafront, a sister to the eco-friendly original in Cornwall, which has brought in more than £2bn to its local economy. Construction could start later this year – if Sunak is feeling generous enough to chip in £70m of the £125m set-up costs. The Eden Project team, along with businesses, schools and politicians of all parties in the local area, sent a letter to the chancellor before the budget arguing that Eden Project North is a “once in a generation opportunity” to reverse Morecambe’s deprivation, poor health and low educational attainment. While Sunak works out how to pay for the pandemic and simultaneously demonstrate tangible commitments to “left behind” towns such as Morecambe, Eden Project architects are busy designing their Lancastrian outpost, which is based around five biodomes shaped like mussels. Inspired by Morecambe Bay – its powerful tides, its sublime sunsets and everything that lurks beneath the surface – Eden Project North aims to take visitors through “four seasons in one day”, said Harland.

Source: The Guardian February 26, 2021 13:41 UTC