JUNGLE BID

Eden Project reveal plans for huge undercover rainforest visitor attraction in Dundee

THE Eden Project have revealed plans to construct a huge undercover rainforest in Dundee.

The charity, Eden Project International, are exploring the feasibility of opening the new attraction in the City of Discovery.

The proposal, known as Eden Project Scotland, is the latest planned visitor attraction in the group's portfolio including developments in China, Australia, New Zealand and Costa Rica.

Facilities in the UK include Morecombe, Derry and Portland. Eden Project also operate the world's biggest undercover rainforest at their Cornwall geodesic Biomes.

Since 2001, 22 million people have visited Eden sites with over £2 billion generated for regional economies.

The study which will begin in June will establish a site for the project, develop content ideas and explore potential for new jobs and boosting the regional economy.

Dundee City Council and the University of Dundee are working with Eden on the 'transformative and regenerative' project with local businesses and institutions supporting the study.

David Harland, Chief Executive of Eden Project International, said: “We are really excited to be working in Dundee. It is a vibrant city with big ambitions and we hope to be able to create something that encapsulates its unique appeal.

"The opening of the city’s V&A in 2018 was a bold statement of intent and we want to be part of the next wave, helping establish Dundee as a truly world-class destination.

“The city was traditionally known for its ‘jute, jam and journalism’, to which we would hope to add some joy, jubilation and, if not an actual jungle, at least the spirit that enabled us to build one under cover in an abandoned quarry in Cornwall.”

John Alexander, Dundee City Council leader, said: “We are delighted to be working with Eden Project International and our local and national partners on such an exciting collaboration.

“There’s a clear alignment between what Eden is known for – sustainability, education and a first-class visitor experience – and what we want to deliver here in Dundee.

“Bringing Eden Project Scotland to Dundee would not only mean securing an amazing asset for local people to enjoy, but also adding another world-class attraction to our future visitor offer.

“Tourism was a key pillar of the Dundee economy before the devastating events of the past few months, and it will be again.

“The vision, ambition and determination embodied in projects like such as Eden - and V&A Dundee before it - will be critical to creating jobs and prosperity as we as a city recover and rebuild.”

Interim Principal & Vice-Chancellor of the University of Dundee, Professor David Maguire, said, “Working with the Eden Project offers some exciting possibilities for the city and the University.

“We are looking forward to exploring the benefits this could bring to our research, teaching and community engagement. Having the Eden Project mentioned alongside V&A Dundee could further boost the city’s standing far and wide, and add to our attractiveness as a destination.”

Fergus Ewing, Tourism Secretary, said: “In these incredibly challenging times for tourism, business and the wider economy, it is encouraging to see potential new growth through the next steps towards Eden Project Scotland being taken.

“Dundee has a growing international reputation as a prestigious cultural and tourism destination and today’s announcement is incredibly welcome news for the city and wider region.

“I have no doubt the project will play a key role in Dundee’s strategic economic recovery from Covid-19, providing many benefits and opportunities to secure jobs, increase investment and attract more visitors to the area.”