Exciting times ahead for city as Eden boss ‘very positive’

THE man behind proposals to open a new Eden Project in Dundee believes the attraction offers a “beacon of hope” beyond the coronavirus pandemic.

Research into plans by Eden Project International to create an environmental tourism site in the city – the first in Scotland – is drawing to a close, with the sixmonth feasibility study due to finish next month.

Although details of the nature and location of the attraction have yet to be confirmed, Eden’s chief executive David Harland said work is on track and he is “very positive” about the proposals.

Mr Harland said: “Dundee has a very interesting history but I think it has an even more exciting future. This has all of the ingredients for a successful project, which we don’t always have at this stage.

“We think there is a lot of history and we think we have found a really interesting and innovative way to tell the stories and bring them to life.

“There are people involved who are really excited and are passionate about the city.”

The Eden Project is best known for its Cornwall site, with its giant biomes housing the world’s largest indoor rainforest.

The attraction also hosts exhibitions, school visits and concerts. Since the Cornish site opened in 2001, the project has expanded into China, New Zealand and Northern Ireland.

Since proposals for an Eden Project in Dundee were revealed in May, charity bosses have been working on the feasibility study with Dundee City Council, community groups and project partners.

As well as the environmental benefits and charity work offered by Eden, it is hoped the prospect of the attraction will bring optimism to Dundonians during the coronavirus pandemic.

The flagship Eden site has boosted the Cornwall economy by £2 billion since it opened 19 years ago and it is hoped the new one will boost the Tayside tourism industry after the struggles caused by Covid-19.

Mr Harland said: “Everything is coming together and we hope