The vibrant two-day event, known as Rhythm Makers in reference to the theme of nature’s rhythms that will inform all aspects of Eden Project Morecambe, provided the chance for attendees to find out about the latest work being done by the Eden Project and its partners and share their stories and experiences of life in Morecambe Bay.
Those in attendance were able to hear from and speak directly to the Eden Project team, participate in workshops and see the latest design imagery for the project.
Conversations from the event will be used to further inspire the exhibits and public experience.
Carolyn Goodwin, who lives and works in the area and attended the event, said: "I am very excited about Eden Project Morecambe. I think it can bring jobs, visitors and a great reputation for the area because I think that is what Morecambe needs. We need to show people what a great part of the North West it is here.
"The event has been really informative and I've learnt so much more about what it is all about, so I'm even more excited now!"
Garry Owen, who runs a local Facebook group and also participated in the event, said: "It's been quite a revelation to see some of the plans for things that are going to be at Eden Project Morecambe. I'm so excited about the project. The sooner it’s up and functioning the better, but it’s going to be worth waiting for without a doubt.
"I think Eden Project Morecambe will help the town truly become a 21st century resort. This will boost Morecambe all the year round and will have a huge impact on so many local businesses. It will be the best thing that has happened to the town in a long time."
Si Bellamy, the Eden Project’s Chief Transformation Officer, said: “It has been incredible to meet the community for what has been an enriching and informative two days of co-creation. There have been some amazing collaborative conversations taking place and the team have been inspired by the fantastic stories shared by the people of Morecambe.
“We are excited to take what we have learnt from Rhythm Makers away with us as we continue to shape the Eden Project Morecambe experience and we would like to offer our sincerest thanks to everyone who came along to the event over the two days."
Rhythm Makers will be an ongoing programme of co-creation, running throughout the period before construction.
Following this initial event, there will be a series of similar invite-only sessions for specific community groups. Later this year (2024), a further open public event will be held to report back on how co-creation has shaped the design of the Eden Project Morecambe experience.
Eden Project Morecambe will be a landmark attraction for the North West which will continue the Eden Project’s mission of connecting people to the natural world, celebrating the unique environment of Morecambe Bay. The content of the project is being developed by the Eden Project’s Experience Development team, formerly known as Eden Project International.
Eden Project Morecambe will be situated on the central promenade of Morecambe, on the former site of the Bubbles leisure complex with the Grade II* listed Winter Gardens and Midland Hotel its near neighbours. The project has been designed in a way which is sensitive and complementary to these important buildings and sightlines across the Bay.
Eden Project Morecambe will cost £100m, £50m of which has been secured from the UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund. The remaining £50m will be sourced from private and philanthropic funds. Construction is due to begin this year (2024) and the project is due to open for small-scale community-focussed test events in 2026 with a full opening in Spring 2027.
The project is being delivered in partnership with Lancaster City Council, Lancashire County Council and Lancaster University.
For more information on Eden Project Morecambe see www.edenproject.com/morecambe.
