Morecambe, a Lancashire seaside town that’s had its fair share of negative press, might be on the cusp of an exciting overhaul as plans to resurrect a once-popular theme park begin to unfold.
The town made headlines when the Telegraph listed it as one of Britain’s worst coastal towns, even going so far as to label it the fifth-worst seaside spot in the nation with untapped potential to be “so much more than it is”.
Yet, hope glimmers on the horizon for Morecambe with movement towards rejuvenating the site of the old Frontierland theme park, which has been gathering dust since it shut down in 2000.
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After over two decades lying dormant, the local council is now keen to inject vitality back into this part of the town.
Jonathan Noad, an official from the city council, expressed that about “35 regional and national developers” have shown an interest in revitalising the long-abandoned theme park, reports the Express.
They’re also inviting the community to contribute their perspectives on potential uses for the land, which the city council acquired back in 2021.
The Wild West-themed adventure park rebranded as Frontierland in 1987 after being open since 1906.
During its 13-year stint as Frontierland, new rides were frequently added. In 1989, the ‘Sky Ride’ was launched, which was a cable car system that offered visitors an birds-eye view of the park and Morecambe’s beautiful promenade.
In 1998, it began to downsize and sell off rides – some of which were moved to Blackpool Pleasure Beach, whilst others went further afield across the globe. In 2000, the attraction closed its doors for good, according to Lancs Live.
Furthermore, the town anticipates the creation of the Eden Project North, anticipated to launch by 2028, which promises to emulate the success of Cornwalls iconic Eden Project.
With an estimated budget of £100 million, the new Morecambe attraction is set to feature a “hyper-real forest,” expansive art installations, and enveloping theatre experiences, all contained within three grand shell-shaped structures delivering views across Morecambe Bay.
Visitors can also anticipate the “Bay Glade,” a haven with a focus on well-being, as well as a Natural Observatory dedicated to research and education.
There will be extra amenities like an exhibition space and communal spot known as the Bay Hall, in addition to play areas, eateries, coffee shops, and a souvenir store to enhance the visitor experience.
Council members are eager for a developer to come forward with an “exciting idea” that has the potential to revamp the site within the next 18 months.