'Incredibly exciting' major update on Eden Project Morecambe with domes, themed gardens and sea walls
New plans for the Eden Project Morecambe with two main shell-shaped domes, themed gardens, sea walls and a causeway entrance have been approved by Lancaster City Council.
Eden Project Morecambe Ltd’s updated plan reflects two years of discussions and changing factors in the £100million scheme, including a backdrop of rising costs and feedback from residents and councillors.
Permission was first given in 2022 for a four-dome design but Eden recently wanted permission to vary some aspects. The latest plan was backed by city councillors on the planning committee in Morecambe this week.
Speaking there, Conservative Coun Keith Budden said: “I was chairman of the planning committee years ago when the original Eden Project plan came through. There was a feeling of euphoria. And back then, we thought we might actually be sitting in the Eden Project now, that it would be open.
“But it is making progress and I think the will is there. Councillors are talking-up the Eden Project and there are Eden representatives here at the meeting today, which is good. So it’s not a case of ‘if’. This will happen.”
Labour’s Louise Belcher said: “It’s good to see this application and to get on with things. It’s fantastic.” And Labour’s Robert Redfern joked: “I will support this, as long as it doesn’t take me longer to get to Morrisons.”
In a vote, all councillors backed the latest plans.
Project director John Pye was at the planning meeting with consultants WSP, who are working with the Eden Project. Speaking after the decision, he said: “We are absolutely delighted with this positive milestone for the project. Today’s decision is fantastic. It’s another indicator that 2026 will be a transformational year for Eden Project Morecambe.”
In a statement, Eden Project said: ” The evolved design focuses on exceptional visitor experiences, deep ecological storytelling and a strengthened relationship with the bay’s unique coastal environment. Inspired by the natural geometries, beauty and efficiency of seashells, the architecture will be instantly recognisable and will be an emblem of sustainability with a deep connection to place, respecting and complementing the highly valued heritage landmarks nearby.”
The two main domes will be called The Realm of the Sun and
The Realm of the Moon, inspired by the rhythms of Morecambe Bay.
The landscaped gardens will include an expanded, permanent version of the Eden Project Bring Me Sunshine Garden, Eden’s 25th‑anniversary show-piece at this May’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2026.
Andy Jasper, chief executive of the Eden Project, said: “Getting the green light to begin building is an incredibly exciting milestone.”
Coun Caroline Jackson, Leader of Lancaster City Council, said: “This is a proud moment for Lancaster and Morecambe. 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.”