A company brought in to manage a popular Merseyside golf course says £1.2m of regeneration works are under way with 11 new jobs created. Tony McDonough reports
A £1.2m upgrade of Bowring Park & Golf Course is under way with 11 new jobs already created.
Six months ago national managing agent Oneday took over the management of what is the oldest park in Knowsley. It undertook the role in partnership with Knowsley Council and supported by Friends of Bowring Park and the mens’ and womens’ golf clubs.
When the business took over management of the site it took on the task of refreshing the facility and completing the National Lottery Heritage Fund Restoration Project. Work includes a new club house and golf course improvements as well as a new visitor centre and heritage interpretation.
Also in the plans is a social enterprise development space in the Stables Building, a new play area, a new food and drink offer in the Coach House, events space and activities and educational and training facilities.
In addition to completing restoration works a new home is being created for Root Catering who will be operating The Coach House Cafe. Plans also include a dedicated website where players can book a round online, a separate footgolf course and six new golf buggies.
New jobs created include reception team members, a development officer, a groundskeeper and a park ranger. Matt Bell, director of Oneday, said: “We focus on creating places that meet the needs of local residents and getting the job done.
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“That is what we are doing to ensure Bowring Park & Golf Course remains at the heart of this community. A place where families can come to relax and unwind in a welcoming environment, alongside an inclusive and well maintained golf course.
“We are also thrilled to welcome Root who is a great, local independent business, and will be serving visitors specialty coffees, teas and quality food.”
Cllr Shelley Powell, Knowsley Council’s cabinet member for communities and neighbourhoods, added: “We’re delighted to see Oneday’s exciting plans for Bowring Park & Golf Course coming to fruition. They’re not only bringing improvements to the golf course, but also providing a food and drink offer and creating new job opportunities.”
North Wales-based Oneday has worked on a range of heritage projects, including Conway Castle and church restoration projects across the country. It has also developed regeneration strategies for retail, including working with Liverpool ONE.