DUNDEE could become a new Eden, it has emerged - as a major English tourist attraction considers breaking ground there.
The Eden Project has turned a former quarry in Cornwall into a rainforest attraction under the cover of striking geodesic Biome domes.
Rare plants and varied habitats have been created at the pioneering site.
More than 22 million people have visited since it opened in 2001 and generated £2 billion for the regional economy.
The organisation behind it has a number of UK and international projects and has now announced moves to create an Eden Project Scotland in Dundee.
David Harland, chief executive of Eden Project International, has confirmed the bid is linked to the opening of the multi-billion pound V&A Dundee design museum on the banks of the Tay two years ago.
It's said that the attraction would be "transformational and regenerative with an overarching theme of humanity's connection to the natural world".
A feasibility study will begin next month.
Harland said: "We are really excited to be working in Dundee. It is a vibrant city with big ambitions and we hope to be able to create something that encapsulates its unique appeal.
"The opening of the city's V&A in 2018 was a bold statement of intent and we want to be part of the next wave, helping establish Dundee as a truly world-class destination.
"The city was traditionally known for its 'jute, jam and journalism', to which we would hope to add some joy, jubilation and, if not an actual jungle, at least the spirit that enabled us to build one under cover in an abandoned quarry in Cornwall."
Dundee City Council and Dundee University are both to be involved in the feasibility study, as are a number of local businesses.
It aims to establish a suitable site, begin developing content ideas and explore the potential for creating jobs and boosting the regional economy.
John Alexander, Dundee City Council leader, said: "We are delighted to be working with Eden Project International and our local and national partners on such an exciting collaboration.
"Bringing Eden Project Scotland to Dundee would not only mean securing an amazing asset for local people to enjoy, but also adding another world-class attraction to our future visitor offer.
"The vision, ambition and determination embodied in projects like such as Eden - and V&A Dundee before it - will be critical to creating jobs and prosperity as we as a city recover and rebuild."
Eden's portfolio of international projects also includes developments in China, Australia, New Zealand and Costa Rica as well as UK projects including in Morecambe, Derry-Londonderry and Portland.
Tourism Secretary Fergus Ewing MSP commented: "In these incredibly challenging times for tourism, business and the wider economy, it is encouraging to see potential new growth through the next steps towards Eden Project Scotland being taken.
"Dundee has a growing international reputation as a prestigious cultural and tourism destination and today's announcement is incredibly welcome news for the city and wider region."
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