Decisions will soon be made that could see a forgotten corner of North West England transformed into an iconic new venue to host the Ryder Cup in 2031.

UK Sport and Ryder Cup Europe have been working on the feasibility of hosting the event in England. There is a shortlist of two venues – the London Golf Club and the UK’s possible newest international golf and leisure destination – Hulton Park in Bolton. The selection process is expected to be concluded over the coming months, presenting the UK Government with the opportunity to secure enormous socio-economic, health and cultural benefits,

At a time of uncertainty about the true benefits of the Levelling Up government commitment, attention turns to the North West and the region’s possible hopes of significant economic, housing, health, cultural and sporting levelling up.

North West-based mixed use regeneration business, Peel L&P, the brains and brawn behind MediaCity at Salford Quays and Liverpool Waters, has a transformative vision for Hulton Park which will see the degraded historic estate transformed into a new international sports destination, along with much-needed housing, and a host of community and health and wellbeing benefits plus access to new green spaces for local residents. The proposals would create over 1,000 jobs, significant transport improvements and unlock £1.6 billion in socio-economic benefits over the next 20 years.

The prospect of the £200m investment by Peel L&P faces a crucial planning decision in just two weeks’ time, providing Bolton Council with a make or break opportunity to support a transformational opportunity to build a legacy for future generations and put Bolton on an international stage. It begs the question – what really matters for the future of Bolton?

Richard Knight, Peel L&P’s Director of Planning and Strategy said: “A previous scheme has already been approved by Bolton Council and then by the Secretary of State following a public inquiry. This is an improved scheme, much greener, more inclusive and accessible. The planning officers have recommended approval of this groundbreaking vision for Hulton Park and by investing hundreds of millions in the area, this is a transformational opportunity for generations to come. As we look ahead to the planning committee decision on the 24th Feb, we sincerely hope that the council seizes the moment and gets behind this once in a generation opportunity.”