80 jobs at risk at The Eden Project

The Eden Project has announced that staff at the attraction are facing redundancies in a move to secure its "long-term economic stability."

Approximately 80 positions are at risk as the organisation seeks to reduce its payroll by an estimated 20%.

Radio Newquay has been told that 19 people have opted to leave voluntarily through voluntary redundancy or retirement.

A spokesperson said: “The Eden Project is initiating proactive measures to ensure the long-term economic stability of the organisation. We have explored every option and will create a new structure as a result of considerable economic challenges.”

A statement from the attraction added: “A number of factors, including the contraction of the visitor economy across the South West and significantly increased costs to businesses, have made this process necessary.

“This process will set us on a path to continue our vital work as an environmental charity and a thriving visitor destination for our second quarter-century and beyond.

“The Eden Project will now begin a consultation period lasting at least 45 days. Affected team members will be supported by the Members Assembly, the Eden Project's staff representative body, and every effort will be made to minimise the number of job losses, with alternative roles or retraining offered where possible.”

Visitor numbers at the attraction increased in the year ending March 2024, rising from 551,000 in 2023 to 604,000. Revenues also grew during this period, but accounts show pre-tax losses widened.

This comes as the tourism sector continues to face significant challenges. Last year, the head of the South West Business Council described tourism in the region as being at its "lowest point for 10 years."