Eden Project reopens after Cornwall flood

The building linking two biomes was flooded

The Eden Project in Cornwall has welcomed its first visitors since heavy floods hit the county.

The St Austell-based eco-attraction was closed and 100 homes evacuated because of flooding on 17 November.

The ice rink and a building linking two greenhouse domes - called biomes - suffered the most damage.

Clear-up work was continuing and all full-priced tickets bought on the door until the end of the month will be offered at half price.

'Working 24/7'

Eden Project chief executive Tim Smit said staff had worked very hard to get the attraction open again as soon as possible.

He said: "It's really odd that after a week you can look at something that was damned awful, and almost look at it as if it's a good thing.

"Yes, it did a lot of damage. But it was also just so exciting to see the Eden team kicking into action and determined to be open as quickly as possible.

"They've been working 24/7."

Malcolm Bell, head of VisitCornwall, said: "It is fantastic to see the Eden Project get back on its feet so quickly.

"Its reopening seven days after the flood sends a strong message that Cornwall is open for business."

Cornwall Council is holding sessions for local people to help them learn more about what happened during the flooding, what caused it and how they can protect their homes against any future flooding.

The sessions are at St Blazey Football Club on Wednesday, Lostwithiel Community Centre on Thursday, the Jubilee Hall in Mevagissey on Friday and at Pentewan Village Hall on Monday.