Plans for a leisure development next to Bootle Golf Club have moved forward, with a planning application submitted by Lumira Group, the firm of former Everton player Victor Anichebe.
The application is the next step in the partnership between Lumira and Sefton Council, announced earlier this year, which aims to bring about £20m of private investment into Bootle.
The proposals centre on a vacant site next to the club. They include a modern clubhouse, a hotel, padel courts, five-a-side pitches and a range of leisure, community and creative facilities, including dedicated podcast spaces.
The council says it wanted a partner that shares its ambitions for the area. Its priorities include training and employment opportunities for local people during construction and afterwards, affordable and accessible facilities for local young people, and keeping the golf course affordable for existing users and residents.
Green fees for existing members, local residents, juniors and people 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 be protected, and improvements to site security and facilities are being considered as part of the wider plan.
Cllr Marion Atkinson, leader of Sefton Council, said the application was “an important step in bringing forward our vision for this site and securing significant investment for Bootle”. She said the proposal offered a new clubhouse and an improved golf course offer, along with new sports, leisure and community facilities. “We have found a partner that shares our pride in Bootle and our ambition to deliver lasting benefits for the community,” she said. “Subject to the planning process, of course, we look forward to next steps.”
Anichebe said Lumira looks forward to engaging with local people as the planning process continues. “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,” he said.
Residents will be able to view the proposals and give feedback as part of the planning process.
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