AMBITIOUS plans to build a multimillion pound golf resort in West Wirral have met with “significant interest” from international investors at a major conference for property developers.

Yesterday Wirral Council launched its bid to entice investors to build a massive golf resort in Hoylake, aiming to capitalise on the success of the 2006 Open, won by Tiger Woods. Jim Wilkie, Deputy Chief Executive of Wirral Council, presented the scheme to international delegates at Mipim (Marché International des Professionnels d'Immobilier) in Cannes.

Over the last several years Wirral Council has been developing plans for the resort which were given a boost by the success of the 2006 Open golf championship.

The Open attracted more spectators than any other in English history and was described by Tiger Woods as “one of the greatest ever staged”.

Mr Wilkie said: “We knew that Wirral’s unique sporting history and the worldwide attention that the Open brought would make the golf resort opportunity one that would be of interest to international investors.

“There has already been significant interest both from North America and Europe and we are now confident we will be able to secure the right investor to take the golf resort forward.”

Wirral Metropolitan Borough Council has been using Mipim to seek suitable investors and developers for a planned golf resort close to the Royal Liverpool Golf Club in Hoylake.

It is understood the proposals have been well received by investors and the council believes it “will not be a case of attracting enough interest but finding the right developer”. American tycoon Donald Trump’s organisation has said they would not rule out becoming involved in the scheme.

Wirral Council began the search for investors and developers following a favourable technical assessment of the proposed 333-acre site.

The development would include a signature golf course, featuring a private clubhouse and five star hotel with restaurant, health and leisure facilities, conference facilities and de luxe spa.

The site has the approval of the Professional Golfers’ Association (PGA), along with golf’s world rules and development body and Open organiser, the R&A (Royal & Ancient).

Jim Wilkie said: “The council is seeking a developer who is committed to delivering a high quality, world class facility with an international reputation.”

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