Sefton Council has announced a new partnership that could bring a major leisure development to Bootle, with around £20 million of private investment planned for land next to Bootle Golf Course.

The Council has confirmed it is working with the Lumira Group, who will lease the currently unused land at the corner of Dunnings Bridge Road and Boundary Road. The site is set to be transformed into a new leisure destination featuring a modern clubhouse, hotel, padel courts and a range of leisure and community facilities. Early plans also include a podcast space and other community focused amenities.

As part of the wider partnership, discussions will also take place about a future management agreement for Bootle Golf Course itself, which could see significant improvements made to the existing facility.

Sefton Council says the investment forms part of its wider plans to regenerate Bootle and attract private sector funding to the area.

Importantly, the Council has confirmed that green fees will remain affordable for existing members, local residents, juniors and people aged over 65, with any changes subject to the Council’s normal fees and charges process.

Existing public rights of way will remain in place, additional security measures are planned, and any future management agreement would ensure current staff working at Bootle Golf Course are not negatively affected.

Local residents will also have the opportunity to have their say through a consultation process as part of the planning stage. Discussions and early phases of work are expected to move forward during 2026, with construction potentially beginning later this year if all approvals are granted.

Cllr Marion Atkinson, Leader of Sefton Council, said the project represents an exciting opportunity for the town.

She said the partnership could help deliver new facilities, fresh investment and long term benefits for the Bootle community, while ensuring the golf course remains a valued and affordable local asset.

Victor Anichebe of Lumira Group said he was proud to lead the investment in Bootle, describing the town as a place close to his heart. He explained that the vision is to combine global expertise with local passion, creating opportunities for residents while supporting long term employment and community engagement.

He added that the project aims to complement wider regeneration plans already underway in Bootle, including developments at The Strand, Salt and Tar and the Town of Culture programme.

All proposals are subject to planning permission and the necessary approvals, but if agreed the project could mark one of the largest leisure investments in Bootle in recent years.