Plans have been submitted to develop vacant land at the Bootle Golf Club site, with a new leisure development proposed for the area next to the golf course. The proposals focus on the current vacant site at the corner of Dunnings Bridge Road and Boundary Road.
What the development includes
The plans include a modern clubhouse, hotel, padel courts, five-a-side pitches, and a range of community leisure facilities, including dedicated podcast spaces. The proposals aim to create a high quality leisure destination, expanding the activities and opportunities available to local people.
Sefton Council said it had a key priority of identifying a partner sharing its ambitions for Bootle and wanting to deliver benefits for the community. This includes creating training and employment opportunities during the construction phase and after, making sure the new facilities are affordable and accessible for young people, and maintaining the golf course as affordable for existing users and residents.
Investment and affordability
The council announced earlier this year its partnership with Lumira Group, which aims to bring around £20m of private investment to transform the Bootle site. Green fees for existing members, local residents, junior players and those aged over 65 would remain affordable, with future changes subject to the council’s fees and charges process.
Existing public rights of way would also be protected, alongside site security improvements and facilities being considered as part of the wider plans. Residents will have the opportunity to view the proposals and give feedback as the planning process continues.
Council and partner comments
Cllr Marion Atkinson, leader of Sefton Council, said: “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 just been 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.”
Former Everton FC striker Victor Anichebe, of Lumira Group, celebrated the partnership. He said: “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.”
