Chorley's municipal golf course, Duxbury Park, is set for a £1.2million boost from a new private operator, it was announced this week.

The 18-hole course, described as the "jewel in Chorley's leisure crown", is to be taken over by specialist golf course operators, Glendale Golf.

It will continue to be owned by the borough council, but Glendale will manage the day-to-day running of the club.

Councillor Cath Hoyle, Chorley's executive member for the life and leisure portfolio, said: "We were keen to tap into specialist knowledge and resources to revitalise the popular course.

"I'm delighted with the potential developments associated with this partnership."

Glendale, which already manages seven other courses, was chosen after interest from private investors, following a market testing exercise.

The firm has pledged to regenerate Duxbury in a £1.2million package, to include improving drainage, developing a six-hole par three course for beginners and building a new clubhouse.

The par 71 golf course, designed by Martin Hawtree and opened in 1977, is regarded by many as one of the finest municipal courses in the country.

But, according to the council, investment was vital to ensure that the course remained playable all year round, as well as continuing to provide the service standards expected.

The building housing the clubhouse, changing rooms, golf shop and cafeteria need replacing, but the Coach House, one of three Grade II listed buildings on the site, set in walled gardens with courtyard parking, have been recently refurbished.

The firm is already considering moving its divisional headquarters into the Coach House, which is currently used by the council's leisure and cultural services department.

Legal negotiations will soon begin, with a 25-year contract being drawn up, and it is hoped Glendale will take over in early summer, 2006.

Golfers playing Duxbury yesterday, broadly welcomed the plans.

Tom Hayes, from Heath Charnock, plays the course twice a week. He said: "Duxbury is something we in Chorley are proud of, but the course does need investment in drainage and pathways. If the new people make improvements it would be supported by golfers here."

Colin Smith, of Anderton, said: "As long as the course remains open to all and there is no big increase in fees I think the plans will be backed."

Jamie Carson, the council's head of leisure and cultural services, said: "At their final presentation Glendale told us that their plans were to retain fees at their current levels.

"This has been a three year process and at all key stages members and club officials were consulted and kept up to speed with developments."

Councillor Hoyle added: "Duxbury Park golf attracts thousands of visitors who play more than 45,000 rounds each year.

"It is considered to be among the best municipal golf facilities in the country and our ultimate aim is to ensure that we capitalise on that success wherever possible."

Staff from the council will move to the new company under the TUPE regulations.