Local Councillors (Max, Tony and Andrew) with Campaigners fighting to protect Hoylake Beach as a Town or Village Green emerged triumphant from a public inquiry hearing, with the council’s legal team left rattled by the strength of our evidence presented.
The high-stakes session saw independent inspector hear submissions in the long-running battle over the future of our precious amenity beach in Hoylake. Residents are seeking formal Village Green status to rake baby rake!
Local Ward Councillors, Max Booth, Tony Cox, and Andrew Gardner issued a statement immediately after the hearing:
“What a day! We want to give a massive shout-out to our incredible legal team and everyone from Hoylake Beach Community who had our backs today – you all made it happen. Thanks to the thousands of pounds raised through your amazing donations, this campaign is still charging ahead full steam. The council’s solicitor completely lost her cool in there – safe to say our evidence is hitting them hard where it hurts.”
Eyewitnesses inside the hearing described exchanges as the council attempted to challenge the case submitted by residents. Campaigners presented nearly 600 individual testimonies dating back decades, dwarfing the council’s own submissions.
One supporter who attended the hearing stated “You could see the frustration on the council’s side. Every time our barrister made a contribution, their solicitor looked more and more unsettled. It was clear they weren’t expecting this level of organised opposition.”
A decision from the independent inspector is expected in early 2026. If successful, Hoylake Beach would receive permanent Town or Village Green status, safeguarding sandy access for future generations.
Speaking outside the venue, Cllr Andrew Gardner added: “This isn’t just about a beach – it’s about the principle that local people should have the final say over their own amenity spaces. Today showed what a community can achieve when it stands together.”
