Plans to begin the transformation of Allerton Golf Course have been put forward by its new owner-operators.
Allerton Golf Club Trading Ltd took over the course on a 25 year lease six months ago and has submitted the proposals to Liverpool City Council, and subject to planning, hopes to complete the works over the winter for completion before the start of the new golf season in April next year. They are the first step in a vision to create a high quality sporting and leisure destination on the popular municipal course.
The plans are a prelude to a major investment by Allerton Golf Trading Ltd, who are working with International Design Group PGA Golf Architects on a longer term improvement programme for the course. The initial plans propose a complete refurbishment of the Grade 2 listed clubhouse building to create a new golf shop, a striking glazed cafe/bistro in the courtyard, new and refurbished bar and restaurant and a raised timber terrace overlooking the 18th green. The plans will also provide improved parking provision for golfers and visitors.
The initial plans will dramatically improve the experience for customers and set a bench-mark for the next major phase of investment. Future plans will include the introduction of two genuine par 5 holes which, along with other improvements to greens and tees, aim to make the course more challenging and attractive to golfers.
Director of Golf for Allerton Golf Trading, Jonathan Large commented: “When we took on this contract we said that we believed that pay for play facilities should be looking to match the best private golf clubs in terms of the quality of the course and the wider facilities, and we are now making that pledge a reality.
“The clubhouse urgently needs a significant upgrade and our plans will bring it right up-to-date and I am sure will be appreciated by everyone who plays here.”
Allerton Golf Trading believe that enhanced facilities, major course improvements and a broader leisure and golfing offer will be the key to creating a successful and financially sustainable asset for the people of Liverpool.
Jonathan Large added: “There is huge scope for improvement to bring the facilities at Allerton up to par, and we look forward to working with Liverpool City Council and the PGA architects to raise the standard, quality and safety of the course. These investments and improvements will establish Allerton as the region’s premier municipal course with top quality facilities accessible to everyone on an affordable pay to play basis.”
Mayoral lead for sport, Councillor Tim Moore, said: “This is really positive news for golfers at Allerton and demonstrates the benefit of bringing in a partner to run the course and secure its future. We have had around £330 million of funding taken away from us since 2010 and are having to make tough budget choices to prioritise services. The submission of this planning application demonstrates a clear commitment to improve the facility and attract more users.”
Allerton Golf Trading are hopeful that their plans will be approved by Liverpool City Council and that their longer-term plans will be revealed before the end of the year.
