Bolton's Bid to Host Ryder Cup
Bolton is seeking to become the first English host of golf's Ryder Cup in over 30 years. Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has announced a funding package focused on infrastructure improvements surrounding a new golf course, supporting the bid to host the event in 2035. This includes a new 30 million M61-M6 link road.
Burnham emphasized the seriousness of the bid, stating it was "not pie in the sky," and noted "promising conversations" with organisers about "bringing the tournament to a bespoke, world-class course at Hulton Park."
Support from Golf Professionals and Officials
Tommy Fleetwood, professional golfer from Southport and Ryder Cup winner, described the prospect as "incredible," highlighting the significance of bringing "the biggest sporting event in the world" to the north-west of England.
"We're deadly serious about it. We believe we can land [the Ryder Cup] and now it's a case of putting in a firm bid next month and hopefully a decision soon."
The announcement was part of the latest funding round aimed at growing Greater Manchester's economy. The Greater Manchester Combined Authority stated the region is preparing to host "the biggest ever Ryder Cup."
If successful, this would mark the first time in over three decades that the Ryder Cup is held in England.
About the Ryder Cup
The Ryder Cup is a biennial golf competition featuring 24 of the best players from Europe and the United States competing over three days in match play format. The event alternates between venues in the two continents.
Local Economic Impact and Infrastructure Plans
Bolton Council leader Nick Peel spoke to BBC Radio Manchester about the potential benefits of hosting the Ryder Cup.
"The lasting boost for our local economy will be huge and, of course, we've also had the announcement of 30m to help deliver Park Avenue, the new phase of the M61-M6 link road which will be absolutely crucial for that part of Bolton."
Burnham noted that hosting the event requires "major investments in infrastructure in the area." He plans to request Chancellor Rachel Reeves to accelerate the delivery of more frequent and modern trains on the Atherton line, invest in improved rail stations, and expedite connections to the Metrolink network.
Development of Hulton Park Golf Course
Initially, Bolton Council rejected the proposal for the Hulton Park golf course due to environmental concerns. However, a government inspector approved the plan in 2022 following an appeal by developers Peel L&P.
Fleetwood, currently ranked world number three, was part of the Europe team that won the Ryder Cup in 2025 and supports the bid to bring the event to the region.
"As a golfer, a Ryder Cup being in England, first and foremost, would be something special," he said.
"On top of that, to do it in the north-west of England, where I'm from, would be amazing."
Significance and Community Support
Fleetwood added:
"We have so much to offer, the people have a lot to offer, the infrastructure has a lot to offer, and I think it would be something that would be incredible."
"The Ryder Cup is the biggest sporting event in the world, and if it came here we'd remember it forever."
Two other English golf courses competing to host the 2035 event are the London Golf Club in Sevenoaks, Kent, and Luton Hoo in Bedfordshire. The last Ryder Cup held in England was at The Belfry in Warwickshire in 2002.
Opposition and Environmental Concerns
The golf course plan has faced opposition, particularly regarding the initial proposal which included building 1,000 homes and a bypass around Westhoughton. Actress Maxine Peake, born in Westhoughton, was among campaigners against the plan, describing it as a "housing project in golf clothing."
Burnham clarified to the BBC that any housing proposals would now be considered separately and do not form part of the golf course scheme.
"Obviously, there's the concern about green space, but a golf course does preserve a lot of green space and provides routes for people through it," he said.
Additional Infrastructure and Historical Context
The funding announcement also includes plans for new cycling and walking routes, as well as new bus routes to the Ryder Cup site.
The park is part of an estate owned by the Hulton family for over 700 years. After a period of neglect, it was purchased by Peel L&P in 2010.
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