WIRRAL’S cabinet has approved a recommendation to make Jack Nicklaus the development partner for a new world-class golf resort in Hoylake.

The legendary golfer was officially declared as preferred development partner for the multi-million pound scheme last week.

During a special meeting of cabinet this afternoon, councillors unanimously approved Mr Nicklaus' involvement and agreed a set of key principles for the initiative.

The initiative will bring an 18-hole championship course - designed by Nicklaus - a luxury five-star Marriott hotel, including health and spa facilities and a clubhouse and a 'Links Academy' where visitors can learn about the unique demands of playing links golf before embarking on a tour of the North West’s three championship links courses.

Council leader and cabinet chairman Phil Davies said it was an "exciting time" for Wirral, with the development set to make the borough the "capital of the UK for golf"

Speaking before cabinet voted on the scheme this afternoon, he said: "It's great knowing that we have someone of Jack’s stature backing this development.

“It will help put Wirral and Hoylake on the map and enhance our tourism offer.

“Jack Nicklaus signature golf will be a tremendous boon for the area.”

Pat Hackett, cabinet member for regeneration and planning strategy, said this afternoon: "The name of Hoylake is known world-wide.

“The addition of a Nicklaus signature golf course will lift the area onto a more competitive level.”

The development, close to the Royal Liverpool golf course, has been the subject of ongoing confidential commercial negotiations.

The scheme will be subject to the usual planning processes and residents who may have objections will be given every opportunity to raise them.

When it was announced last week, Cllr Davies said : "The golf resort represents an opportunity to make Wirral the capital of England’s golf coast, attracting visitors from all over the world using Hoylake as the base for their golfing holidays.”

Cllr Davies said there is a two to three-year timescale for the development but it is too early to release any further details.

The Hoylake Golf Resort could create a total of 175 jobs. The two main job elements will be on the golf and clubhouse operational side of the business, 86 jobs and 67 jobs on the operation of the hotel.

The bid also estimates that the construction of the championship golf course, hotel, club house and infrastructure would create a total of 168 construction jobs.

The construction of the residential element of the scheme could create a further 50 jobs.