Plans to transform the Hulton Park estate in Bolton into an international golf destination, capable of hosting the Ryder Cup, have received approval from the UK Government.
The aim is to create a new national parkland golf venue in the north of England with capacity for over 70,000 spectators and located close to the sporting and cultural assets in Greater Manchester and the North West. European Golf Design and European Tour Properties are both involved in the project.
The proposals – submitted by development company Peel L&P – were called-in for a decision by Robert Jenrick, the secretary of state for housing communities and local government, having secured Bolton Council’s approval in 2018. The plans also include a luxury hotel, spa and conference centre, and an academy.
Following a public inquiry and evidence to demonstrate the scale of the social and economic benefits of the development, amounting to a £1.2 billion boost to the national economy, Jenrick has now given the planning application his seal of approval.
Richard Knight, director of land and communities for Peel L&P, said: “We take great pride in creating projects that can leave a positive legacy. Our plans for Hulton Park can deliver an amazing global sporting destination capable of hosting major tournaments as well as a catalyst for positive change, healthy living, heritage restoration and tourism in Bolton.
“The proposals can also bring much-needed housing to the borough and the development is both respectful to the area’s heritage and the environment with original roads and footpaths retained and the creation of new wildlife habitats to enhance biodiversity.”
Watch: animations created for the project by Harris Kalinka.
The project has the support of a wide range of sports and tourism bodies, local universities, and business groups. It has also had evidence prepared by ecologists and heritage experts to show that the project would have a positive environmental impact on the site.
Transport evidence, including a link road to benefit the wider area, show how the site will be highly accessible.
Peel L&P hopes to have the golf destination open in 2025, with the approved proposals subject to a restriction regarding the award of the Ryder Cup.