ONE of the biggest names in golf is in "detailed discussions" with the council to manage the proposed Hoylake golf resort.

Wirral's cabinet will consider a report setting out the next stages of the plan to build the £190m international golf resort in Hoylake when it meets next week.

The report reveals that Celtic Manor – the company behind the South Wales luxury resort which hosted the 2010 Ryder Cup and 2014 NATO summit – are in talks with the Jack Nicklaus Joint Venture Group to manage the hotel and conference centre.

Leader of Wirral Council Cllr Phil Davies said: "Hoylake Golf Resort will be an iconic international project bringing new jobs, prosperity and tourists to Wirral, boosting our economy and visitor numbers.

Wirral Globe:

Cllr Phil Davies

"It reflects the bold ambitions we have for Wirral and to have industry-leading organisations like Celtic Manor exploring the possibilities is encouraging.

"Tourism is an important part of our growth plan, and supports our pledges around a vibrant economy and job creation.

"We already know the power of golf to attract investment and international visitors to Wirral from our experiences hosting what are widely considered to have been two of the most successful British Opens in recent years." 

Wirral Globe:

Jack Nicklaus

In July last year the council agreed to appoint the joint venture group of legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus as its preferred development partner.

Councillor Davies continued: "The next stage is to consult on a range of commercial, technical and legal issues to help us draw up a blueprint for moving forward.

"We will continue to consult and engage with local residents and other interested parties as we look to move forward in delivering these exciting plans." 

The proposed resort will see two new championship courses built including the only Jack Nicklaus designed municipal course in the country.

The plans also include a luxury hotel, conference centre and a links academy to support Wirral’s ambition to be the capital of UK links golf.

Not everyone supports the idea.

 In May, ward councillor Gerry Ellis, who previously was in favour, said the loss of green belt land coupled with the town being unable to cope with increased traffic convinced him to change his mind.