Plans for Bootle Golf Course and the surrounding area have taken the next step with a planning application now submitted for a new leisure development on land next to the course.

Aiming to bring around £20 million of private investment into Bootle 

The application shows significant progress in the Council's partnership with Lumira Group, which was announced earlier this year and aims to bring around £20 million of private investment into Bootle.

The proposals focus on the currently vacant site at the corner of Dunnings Bridge Road and Boundary Road and include plans for a modern clubhouse, hotel, padel courts, five a side pitches and a range of leisure, community and creative facilities, including dedicated podcast spaces. 

High quality leisure destination

Together, the proposals would create a high-quality leisure destination while expanding the range of activities and opportunities available to local people.

Wider benefits for local communities 

A key priority for the Council has been identifying a partner that shares its ambitions for Bootle and will deliver wider benefits for local communities. This includes creating training and employment opportunities for local people during the construction phase and beyond, making sure new facilities are affordable and accessible for local young people, and maintaining the golf course as an affordable destination for existing users and residents.

Local people continuing to benefit from the golf course 

As plans progress, so does the commitment to ensuring local people continue to benefit from the golf course and wider facilities. Green fees for existing members, local residents, junior players and people aged over 65 would remain affordable, with any future changes subject to the Council's established fees and charges process. Existing public rights of way would also be protected, while improvements to site security and facilities are being considered as part of the wider vision.

Cllr Marion Atkinson, Leader of Sefton Council, said:

"Submitting this planning application is an important step in bringing forward our vision for this site and securing significant investment for Bootle.

"What makes this proposal particularly exciting is the breadth and quality of what is being offered. Alongside a new clubhouse and an improved golf course offer, there will be new sports, leisure and community facilities that can benefit local people for years to come.

"For the Council, finding the right investment partner has never been just about securing the best financial value from the site. We wanted a partner who shares our ambition for Bootle and our commitment to creating opportunities for local people.

"That means supporting training and employment opportunities during the construction of the development, ensuring facilities remain affordable and accessible for existing members and new visitors to the club.

"That is why we talk about partnership. We have found a partner that shares our pride in Bootle and our ambition to deliver lasting benefits for the community. Subject to the planning process, of course, we look forward to next steps."

Victor Anichebe, of Lumira Group, said:

"We are pleased to reach this stage and look forward to engaging with local people as the planning process progresses.

"Our ambition remains to create a destination that combines high-quality leisure facilities with meaningful opportunities for the local community, while supporting jobs, investment and long-term growth in Bootle.

“We share Sefton Council’s view on the importance of partnership working, and we share the Council’s enthusiasm for Bootle and its future."

Major investment in the area, supporting wider ambitions

Residents will have the opportunity to view the proposals and provide feedback as part of the planning process. Subject to the necessary approvals, the development would represent a major investment in the area and supports wider ambitions to drive regeneration, attract private sector investment and create new opportunities for local communities.