Businesses encouraged to capitalise on Eden project green light

Businesses around Morecambe Bay are being encouraged to learn more about how they could benefit from the construction of the Eden Project Morecambe after councillors agreed on Monday that a revised development should go ahead.

Developers said the revised plans – which will see the creation of a garden and a series of immersive Realms within two shell-inspired superstructures – had been adapted because of what was described as a ‘strategic recalibration of the project to ensure it remains ambitious, deliverable and aligned with the current economic landscape.’

“With planning permission now secured and formal agreements currently being finalised, the project moves forward with confidence,” John Pye, project director, Eden Project Morecambe, said.

“This marks a hugely significant moment for Eden Project Morecambe and for the entire community that has travelled this journey with us.

“Bringing the Chelsea Bring Me Sunshine garden – a space shaped with local people – home to the Bay is the first step in transforming this remarkable site into a world‑class destination celebrating nature, wellbeing and the true spirit of Morecambe.”

The Realm of the Sun will form a bright, tropical landscape of the near future while The Realm of the Moon will offer a darker, more mysterious environment inspired by the Bay.

Eden Project Morecambe is supported by £50m worth of Government investment, supported by Lancaster University, Lancaster City Council and Lancashire County Council.

“This is a proud moment for Lancaster and Morecambe,” Councillor Caroline Jackson, leader of Lancaster City Council, said.

“Planning approval unlocks opportunities for employment, tourism and economic growth that will benefit residents for decades. The gardens will offer a joyful new public space long before the main site opens, ensuring communities feel the impact of Eden’s arrival from the very beginning.”

It’s understood contracts with developers will be signed imminently and work will start soon to meet a predicted opening of the first phase in a year’s time.

In terms of jobs created, the revised plans predict 150 full time equivalent roles, significantly fewer according to the planning document than the 389 originally anticipated.

 “Reaching this milestone is tremendously heartening and we look forward to seeing visible elements of the project come to life in the months ahead,” Professor Sarah Kemp, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Engagement, Lancaster University said.

Meanwhile local businesses looking to work with developers are being encouraged to join a drop-in event to be held on 18 March 2026 at The Platform in Morecambe between 3pm and 7pm.

The event which is being jointly organised with Lancaster City Council will allow businesses to express an interest to supply to the build and construction phase, as well as directly the supply chain for Eden Project Morecambe when it opens in winter 2028.

Source Link: https://businesscrack.co.uk/2026/02/18/businesses-encouraged-to-capitalise-on-eden-project-green-light/