Mini golf looks to cash in on New Brighton regeneration

Jul 13 2011 by Liam Murphy, Wallasey News

COUNCIL-owned tennis courts and bowling greens could be sold off as part of plans to create a golfing attraction in New Brighton.

The site is located near the completed Marine Point scheme and is being eyed up by Wirral company Championship Miniature Golf.

The scheme has also received support from local Labour and Conservative councillors.

However, the company behind the scheme is still awaiting a final decision by Wirral Council over selling the land which is overlooked by Wellington Road, a conservation area.

It currently includes six tennis courts, two bowling greens, a “crazy golf” course and a pitch and putt course, although this last part would not be affected by the plans.

Nick Ashfield, director of the company seeking to build the attraction, said he hopes to create an 18-hole miniature golf course based on famous holes from top golf courses.

Each hole would range from 12 to 20 metres long and the entire course would use up around five of the existing tennis courts, and if approved could be built within 12 weeks.

Mr Ashfield said: “Part of my concept is working with the community, and using the facility to introduce kids to golf and the etiquette this surrounds it.”

Mr Ashfield said he hoped to secure council approval for the scheme in order to open ahead of the Ladies Open, which is to be held in Hoylake next year.

New Brighton councillor Pat Hackett added: "It’s Šexciting times for New Brighton as Šwe look to the next phase and build on the momentum of the multi-million pound Neptune development Što begin to shape the new New Brighton.

“By any stretch of the imagination, the present facilities at the Kings Parade site are tired, run down and were conceived in another era that is not befitting today’s needs.

“I firmly believe that New Brighton is reinventing itself to emerge as a first-class leisure destination determined to grab its share of a general growth in domestic tourism that caters for new holiday tastes and trends.

“I think this thrilling golf development is in line with that and is just what New Brighton needs by providing family-friendly entertainment, education and a tourist facility that will bring the crowds flocking in.”

His comments were echoed by the wards Tory councillor Sue Taylor, who added: “This is a local guy who is looking to invest £250,000 and it can only be a good thing.

“It will enhance this area, which is neglected and run down. There will be attractions for adults such as the cinema and casino, bars and restaurants, and I think a family activity like this would be brilliant.”