A groundbreaking £30 million tourist attraction celebrating the Jurassic Coast is set to rejuvenate Weymouth and Portland, two seaside towns in the South West of England that have long faced economic challenges.
The MEMO Portland project, popularly known as Eden Portland, was first proposed in 2018 with the goal of transforming a disused quarry into a unique subterranean science theatre. This innovative attraction will offer visitors an immersive journey through a network of ancient mine tunnels, illustrating the story of biodiversity and the evolution of life beneath the Jurassic Coast.
Visitors will explore a labyrinthine underground world, while above ground, a striking cathedral-like structure will feature engravings of extinct species, serving as a poignant reminder of ongoing environmental challenges. MEMO anticipates welcoming over 300,000 visitors annually, potentially injecting up to £24 million per year into the local economy.
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Sebastian Brooke, Project Director of MEMO, told The Express that the initiative could create approximately 600 jobs in the Weymouth and Portland areas. These communities have suffered from some of the most severe economic downturns in the UK, according to a 2022 study by the South Dorset Research Group, which highlighted declining employment opportunities and wages.
The project director recalled the profound impact of the Portland Naval Base closure in 1995, which resulted in the sudden loss of 4,500 jobs and dealt a £40 million blow to the local economy. Such events have contributed to a cycle of hardship described in reports as trapping these towns in economic fragility.
Brooke emphasized the dual purpose of the venture: engaging the public with the wonders of the natural world and raising awareness about the critical issue of species extinction. He likened the quarry setting to an “industrial Indiana Jones set,” filled with character and history left from centuries of quarrying and recent underground mining developments.
Highlighting the importance of public understanding, Brooke referenced recent research from the Royal Society and Natural History Museum pointing to the need for widespread engagement if global nature recovery goals are to be met.
Portland stone, highly regarded for its architectural significance, has been used in iconic buildings such as the BBC’s Broadcasting House. The project has received backing from South Dorset MP Lloyd Hatton, who has urged government support through the Growth Mission Fund. Speaking at Prime Minister’s Questions, Hatton called on Sir Keir Starmer to endorse Eden Portland, highlighting its potential to become a world-class attraction and boost the Dorset economy.
Hatton expressed optimism about the project’s capacity to generate millions in investment and create quality local employment opportunities, stating, “With the support of the Government, we can get this exciting project over the line.” Sir Keir Starmer acknowledged the proposal as a “hugely exciting project,” with funding decisions expected later this year.
The Eden Portland initiative offers hope for economic renewal and environmental education, promising to transform Weymouth and Portland while celebrating the unique heritage of the Jurassic Coast.