Beacon Country Park Masterplan Approved 

• Masterplan sets out phased approach to transform West Lancashire’s flagship park 
• Framework for future investment will boost health, nature and tourism 
• Community-led vision prioritises new trails, play areas and cultural spaces 

West Lancashire Borough Council has approved a strategic masterplan to guide the future development of Beacon Country Park as a regional destination for recreation, wellbeing, and nature. The decision provides a clear framework for phased improvements to one of the Borough’s most treasured assets. 

Beacon Country Park, spanning over 300 acres of woodland, meadows and open green spaces, already attracts up to 150,000 visits annually. The new masterplan aims to build on this success, creating a vibrant, accessible space that promotes health, sustainability and economic growth. Scoping work suggests visitor numbers could be boosted by up to 40% over time as improvements are delivered.

As part of the plans, the Council will begin discussions with Wigan Council to acquire a lease for Ashurst Beacon and the adjoining land allowing West Lancashire to lead its future management and bring this historic landmark into the park’s management framework.

The design of the Masterplan follows extensive consultation with residents and stakeholders, which evidenced strong support for change. Eighty-one per cent of respondents backed improvements to the park, with priorities including better walking and cycling trails, upgraded play areas, improved café and toilet facilities and enhanced accessibility. Supporting biodiversity and the natural environment were also recurring themes. 

Key Features of the proposals are: 

• Welcome Hub: A proposed visitor centre with café, toilets, play area, and small business units, creating a gateway to the park. 
• Family Cycling Hub: Learn-to-ride spaces, pump track and circular routes connecting to the wider networks of the area. 
• Cultural & Events Hub: Flexible outdoor space for theatre, cinema and live performance. 
• Adventure Hub: Low-impact activities and a potential sculptural viewing tower, whichsubject to feasibility and funding would attract visitors from across the North West. 
• Glamping & Short-Stay Accommodation: Opportunities to extend dwell time and supporting year-round income, subject to operator interest.
• Garden & Learning Hub: Opportunities for education, sustainability and community growing projects. 

The masterplan is deliberately structured for phased delivery and flexibility, ensuring early wins such as footpath upgrades and play improvements can be progressed first, while larger projects can be unlocked through partnerships and external funding. Initial works will be supported by £346,500 of Strategic Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding, alongside investment from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. 

 
The transformation is expected to deliver significant benefits for West Lancashire, with more inclusive trails, play areas, and cultural events to promote active lifestyles and reduce health inequalities. The plan also aims to boost the visitor economy, potentially generating up to £1.5m in additional annual spend, supporting local jobs and businesses. 

Environmental benefits include the safeguarding of habitats, promoting biodiversity and creating climate-resilient landscapes. 

Councillor Carl Coughlan, Lead member for Leisure, said: ”I’m delighted the Masterplan has been approved at Council, giving us a clear direction to deliver the positive changes our residents have been asking for.  

“The phased approach we’ve outlined will make the Park even more accessible, inclusive and vibrant, creating opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy nature, culture and recreation while supporting our local economy and environment. By working closely with partners, we will deliver a secure future for the Beacon Country Park opening up opportunities for all residents and visitors to connect and explore.”