Eden Project forms partnership with proposed Devon attraction

Developers behind a proposed 230-acre leisure, business and retail park on route to our holiday parks in Devon have enlisted the help of the Eden Project to create a Devon version of Cornwall's most famous attraction.

The news comes before a crucial meeting of Mid Devon Council, in which the developers will find out whether their plans for the Junction 27 complex are to be entered into the next local plan for development in the area.

The partnership will give the Cornwall landmark permanent presence at the “Gateway to the South West”.

Experts from the Eden Project will work alongside the J27 Westwood team to ensure that the proposed attraction reaches world-class levels of environmental sustainability, reviewing aspects like architecture, landscaping, materials and transport.

Those that choose Devon holidays will be excited to hear some of the facilities, which believe it or not, include an artificial surf reef, multi cinema, 1800-seat theatre, cycle trails, fashion stores, hotels and a supermarket.

Bob De Barr, from Westwood, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have secured the involvement of the Eden Project at Westwood.”

“It's the South West's most famous tourist attraction, and it is a huge vote of confidence in Mid Devon's potential that they are willing to join forces with Westwood.”

“We want them to challenge every single aspect of the scheme so that we can create one of the greenest, most innovative facilities the UK has ever seen.”

Westwood is now being considered for inclusion in the district's draft local plan, which is due to be submitted to the Secretary of State for in 2015.