The cricket plans have been also backed by Wirral Chamber of Commerce, who met recently with prospective operators Eight4Sport.

Chamber CEO, Ken Davies, said: “This site is located in a part of Wirral where the council has identified a need for improved and additional sports and recreation facilities.

“This is an exciting development that will create jobs and also add something unique to Wirral’s sporting and leisure offer. The site has been vacant for over two years and we very much welcome a proposal that will bring it into active and productive use.

“The Chamber of Commerce will always encourage and welcome progressive new businesses to the Wirral and hope for their success.”

Eight4Sport director, Oliver MacPherson, welcomed the support of the Chamber, which follows enthusiastic backing from national and local cricket and sports development agencies.

He said: “Our proposal is being backed by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), Sport England, Indoor Cricket England, Indoor Netball England, Cheshire County Cricket Board and cricket clubs, sports development agencies and youth and disability groups on the Wirral.”

The developers say that, if approved, the sports facility will create up to 12 full-time jobs.