Pedals pump up the volume in Morecambe
The story of Morecambe is being brought to life thanks to the introduction of innovative ‘pedal powered’ playground equipment that has been installed along the promenade.
Morecambe Business Improvement District (BID), with large thanks to United Utilities and other partners, have installed five interactive devices which, when powered into action with a foot pedal, tell a story about different aspects of Morecambe’s rich cultural heritage.
In a collaborative effort to enhance Morecambe’s promenade, the town’s BID sought support for the installation of the Audionetic Playnetic devices. The hugely usable pieces of equipment come to life when the foot pedal is pumped a few times.
Ruth Wilkinson, Chair of Morecambe BID and owner of the Consult Centre in Morecambe, commented explained: “This exciting project will see the installation of five unique auditory experiences at key locations along the promenade, each designed to celebrate and illuminate the rich cultural and natural heritage of Morecambe.”
The selected themes include the Time and Tide Bell, the iconic Eric Morecambe statue, the breathtaking Mountainscape Panorama, the heroic RNLI station at Green Street, and the captivating Birds of the Bay at the Yacht Club. This initiative promises to enrich the visitor experience and deepen the connection between the community and its beautiful surroundings.
Ruth added: “We are excited to bring this project to Morecambe, it is yet another reason for visitors to spend time with us here. A reason too, for local families to enjoy a walk along the prom, and perhaps find out some interesting facts about Morecambe. Our thanks go to United Utilities and our partners who have helped us in bringing this exciting new attraction to Morecambe.”
Each message has been professionally recorded by Lancashire actor Julia Haworth, who is best known for her role as Claire Peacock in 'Coronation Street' as well as her appearance in the second series of Morecambe-based crime drama ‘The Bay’. Interpretation boards provide additional information and there’s link through a QR code the Morecambe BID website.
Iain Pilling, Area Engagement lead for Lancashire at United Utilities, added: “When Morecambe BID asked us to be involved in this project, we were happy to help. It’s a fantastic addition to the promenade and we hope visitors enjoy it.
The boards were installed by United Utilities’ civil engineering partners Sapphire Utility Solutions. Zak Haworth, Account Manager said: "It was a pleasure to work with Morecambe BID and United Utilities installing the fun Playnetics device on Morecambe Promenade and we look forward to working in Morecambe again in the future, especially with the coming Eden project".
Morecambe BID would like to thank all those who have been involved in getting this project off the ground. They include: - United Utilities, Sapphire Solutions, Alpha Engraving of White Lund, Voiceover Solutions UK of Dolphinholme and Lancaster City Council.
The devices will go live when the final reinstatement of the promenade surface has taken place.