A company run by former Everton striker Victor Anichebe submits planning application for a £20m leisure development and golf course in Liverpool city region. Tony McDonough reports
Former Everton striker Victor Anichebe is pushing forward his plans for a £20m leisure development and golf course in Bootle.
His company, Lumira Group, has submitted a planning application for the scheme which centres on a vacant site at the corner of Dunnings Bridge Road and Boundary Road and also incorporates the Sefton Council-owned Bootle Golf Course.
In partnership with the council Lumira will build a modern clubhouse, hotel, padel courts, five-a-side pitches and a range of leisure, community and creative facilities, including dedicated podcast spaces.
Sefton Council favours the project as it creates training and employment opportunities for local people, makes sure new facilities are affordable and accessible for local young people, and maintains the golf course as an affordable destination.
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.”
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Victor Anichebe played 131 times for Everton’s first team between 2006 and 2013, scoring 18 goals. He later played for Sunderland and West Bromwich Albion and won 11 caps for Nigeria. He was born in Lagos but moved to Liverpool with his family when he was a baby.
“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 added.
Residents will have the opportunity to view the proposals and provide feedback as part of the planning process.