A public meeting to discuss the future of Morecambe and how the town can prepare for the Eden Project has already sold out.
The Morecambe Summit will take place on Tuesday March 14 from 2pm-5pm at the Winter Gardens - and has proven so popular that there are no places left.
The event is an opportunity for local people, organisations and businesses to contribute to further conversations and plans for Morecambe.
Speakers will include representatives from organisers Lancaster City Council, the Eden Project, Lancaster University and Lancashire County Council.
Topics that will be discussed include transport, planning and regeneration, housing, community and health, environment, economy, culture, education and skills, and young people.
Beyond Radio exclusively revealed in February that the Morecambe Summit would be taking place.
Related Story: 'Morecambe Summit' meeting on the Eden Project announced - Beyond Radio
It was announced in January that £50m of government cash had been awarded to the planned Eden Project Morecambe, paving the way for the attraction to now be built.
Related Story: Morecambe’s landmark Eden Project North will happen after £50m funding confirmed - Beyond Radio
Councillor Caroline Jackson, leader of Lancaster City Council, said: “The announcement of the successful funding bid for Eden Project Morecambe was a wonderful culmination of huge effort from all of us involved - and that means all, because support from Morecambe residents was huge.
“Change is inevitable now and we have to accept that change brings uneasiness about the future. Even as we look at all the huge opportunities that could come we worry about whether we will lose something we value and whether we will cope with new challenges and new demands.
“So as a council we think it is the right time to reconsider, not just the Eden effect, but all the hopes and concerns that those who live and work in Morecambe have for the future of their town. The summit is time and opportunity to begin the conversations and partnerships that will lead to us making the best use of the opportunities that are opening up, being fully aware of important consequences and to preserving the things we love most.”
Professor Vanessa Toulmin, Chair of Morecambe Winter Gardens Preservation Trust, added: “The Winter Gardens is delighted to be hosting such an important event for the future of Morecambe.
"Our volunteers are giving up their time as they believe this is important for all residents and policy makers to be part of together and we are delighted that our iconic building, which both represents the heritage and also the future, has been chosen as the venue.”
If you aren’t able to attend the summit, don’t worry. This is only the beginning of a series of conversations and more will be held in the future. You can also contribute your views via the city council’s consultation portal here.
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