Grimshaw celebrate progress on new eco centre attraction
Eden Project North, designed by Tenderstream member Grimshaw, has received planning permission from Lancaster City Council. Developed with support from local partners Lancaster City Council, Lancashire County Council, Lancashire Enterprise Partnership and Lancaster University, the project will focus on re-imagining health and wellbeing, taking inspiration from its location within the landscape of Morecambe Bay. As well as creating new views across the bay, the completed structure will also complement the local townscape, which includes the nearby Grade II listed Winter Gardens and Midland Hotel.
At the heart of the attraction, organised around a central courtyard, a series of shell-like structures host the main exhibition spaces: immersive experiences showcasing natural life above and below the bay. Wrapped around the lower part of the shells are ancillary spaces, consisting of undulating forms that resemble a natural dune-scape.
A collection of outdoor gardens designed to reflect the flora, geology and rhythms of their unique coastal environment include the Rhythm Garden, incorporating a new outdoor arena, and the Tide Garden, whose beds spiral down towards a tidal pool at the garden’s centre.
The concept for Eden Project North builds on Grimshaw’s work at the first Eden Project destination in Cornwall. The design focusses on reducing embodied and operational carbon, minimising energy demand and contributing positively to the environment, while also acting as a showcase for visitors to learn about this approach.
Jolyon Brewis, partner at Grimshaw, stated: “Inspired by the unique location and outstanding natural beauty of Morecambe Bay, Eden Project North will become a landmark destination of national and international significance. We are delighted that the scheme has now secured planning approval and look forward to bringing to life, for Morecambe, a place that will bring wonder, wellbeing, and connection to the natural world.”
Subject to funding being secured, the project is due to open in 2024
Lucy Nordberg
Tenderstream Head of Research
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